SUSD posts holiday classroom guidance and party food rules

Scottsdale Unified School District posted holiday guidance for classrooms on Nov. 9, 2026, including answers for teachers about December decorations and rules for food at school parties.

On Christmas trees, the district said that, under the First Amendment, schools may use material with religious references if it is chosen for secular content and does not promote religion. SUSD said federal guidance treats Christmas trees, Santa Claus, reindeer, snowmen and gingerbread as secular seasonal imagery that may be used for a winter or holiday party. It said nativity scenes, angels and scripture readings are not allowed as part of a party theme, because those displays would endorse a specific religion.

The district told schools to consider whether an activity’s main effect is the celebration of religion, whether material was selected for its educational value, and whether the traditions of different people are shared and respected. It also said schools may not promote religious observance, and may not interfere with a student’s own religious expression unless that conduct disrupts school operations.

Foods brought into classrooms for holiday parties must follow the Arizona Healthy Schools Act and district rules, SUSD said. According to the Nov. 9 guidance, foods served or distributed in classrooms during the regular school day may not contain any of 11 ingredients prohibited under the state law as of July 1, 2026, including titanium dioxide, brominated vegetable oil, potassium bromate, propylparaben and several artificial colors. SUSD requires store-bought foods only, with ingredient labels available; homemade foods are not permitted. Parents may send food of their choice for their own child if it is not shared with other students.

The district encouraged non-food alternatives such as stickers, pencils or small toys. Questions and food approvals were directed to Patti Bilbrey, SUSD’s director of nutrition services.

Source: Scottsdale Unified School District, “Holiday Guidance for Classrooms,” posted Nov. 9, 2026

Source: SUSD news listing