(CBS Seattle) - Teachers and other faculty members of  West Seattle’s Lafayette Elementary have agreed to not allow students to dress up in Halloween costumes this year.

The decision was first reported by the district (Seattle Public Schools) as being a preventative measure in the event that Halloween costumes could offend and upset students who come from other cultures. Dozens of parents complained to the school over the measure demanding a detailed explanation.

Lafayette’s principal, Shauna Heath, e-mailed media outlets including The West Seattle Blog arguing the decision was made because of the limited instructional time that falls on Halloween this year; Seattle Public Schools observe a half-day of instruction on Wednesday, October 31st:

“This decision was made by the entire staff after two deep and detailed discussions. The initial conversation was initiated by staff members who suggested that since Halloween falls this year on a half day of school, we not allow costumes. It takes students a while to change into their costumes, and students are distracted taking away from the already limited instructional time.

The Lafayette Staff met again on Monday, revisiting and recommitting to their decision of no costumes so that we can focus on academics during the limited time we have available. The staff has committed to continuing the conversation throughout the year before deciding on what we will do in the future about Halloween celebrations.”

CBS affiliate KIRO 7 Eyewitness News reports the school announced it will be hosting a “Harvest Party” in lieu of a costume party.

(TM and © Copyright 2012 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2012 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The West Seattle Blog and KIRO 7 Eyewitness News contributed to this report.)