At 1:40pm on Monday, April 8th, 2024 North Texas will be in the direct path of a total solar eclipse lasting for 3 minutes and 51 seconds. Total solar eclipses occur about every 18 months when the Moon passes between the Sun and the Earth, blocking out most of the Sun’s light and causing a brief period of darkness, but, because the Moon’s shadow cast upon the face of the Earth is so small, it is extraordinarily rare to experience right where one lives. The last time Dallas experienced a total solar eclipse was in 1878, and the next time won’t be until 2317, so this is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Viewing the Eclipse
Because the eclipse will occur in the middle of the school day on Monday, April 8th, weather permitting, we have planned for teachers and students to view the eclipse together.
Permission Slips
Looking directly at the sun can seriously damage one’s eyes. While we have purchased special glasses that will allow our students to observe the eclipse safely, because there is some risk of students removing their glasses inappropriately, we will require all students to have a signed permission slip to participate.
Permission slips will be coming home in folders for parents to sign and return this week, but here is a digital copy you can print and sign if your child’s should get lost.
Total Solar Eclipse Permission Slip
Eclipse Attire for Students
To make this once-in-a-lifetime astronomical event extra special, students will be allowed to wear attire themed to astronomy, celestial bodies, and space on Monday, April 8th. Please see the guidelines we have put together for determining what is appropriate to wear to school.
Total Solar Eclipse Attire Guidelines
Parent Volunteers
To help us monitor students during the eclipse and keep everyone safe, we are asking for two parent volunteers from each class to come to school and assist. Volunteers must be able to arrive no later than 12:30pm and stay for the duration of the eclipse. All on-campus volunteers must also complete the required background check each school year.
Picking Up Children Early
We know that some parents may want to pick up their children early on April 8th to view the eclipse as a family. If you are intending to pick up your child, please ensure you do so no later than 12:30pm. After 12:30pm our parking lot will be closed to visitors for the safety of our teachers and students.