PONTIAC, Mich. - Pontiac School District teachers were to hand out Halloween candy in front of district schools Saturday as part of a larger effort to entice parents and students back to the district, The Oakland Press reported.

Pontiac Education Association President Lance Davis said the plan called for costumed teachers to pass out the sweets at five schools.

"Teachers are doing it to strengthen bonds with the community," Davis told The Press.

Half of Pontiac's elementary schools were closed as part of a restructuring plan this year, The Press reported. Some students who live in the district now attend public charter schools or schools in other districts.

"We are trying to convince parents to give us another chance," Davis told The Press, pointing to new efforts by the district to develop themed schools, an International Baccalaureate program and early college enrollment.

SOURCE:
The Oakland Press, "Teachers will pass out Halloween candy," Oct. 30, 2009

FURTHER READING:
Michigan Education Digest, "Pontiac school plan ends up in court," May 26, 2009