The purpose of this communication is to provide our CBSD Families with information related to the 2024 Solar Eclipse anticipated on April 8, 2024.
What is a solar eclipse?
A solar eclipse is when the moon passes in front of the sun without completely covering it, giving the sun a crescent shape.
What will happen during the solar eclipse?
This will temporarily reduce the amount of sunlight in our area, which can be alarming to students if they are unaware of the solar eclipse.
What time is the solar eclipse?
The eclipse will begin around 2:06 p.m., with the maximum eclipse (the point at which the sun is most hidden) around 3:22 p.m., and will conclude around 4:34 p.m. The Lancaster County area is not in the path of totality but will experience a partial solar eclipse where safety precautions are necessary.
What to expect in the Columbia Borough School District?
There are no changes to the regular school day on April 8th.
All students and staff will receive a pair of solar eclipse glasses, courtesy of the Columbia Education Foundation. While eclipses are naturally occurring and exciting, we want to ensure our students and staff are safe. Certified solar eclipse glasses or filters are the only safe options for direct viewing.
Prior to dismissal our teachers will provide students with glasses and remind them not to look directly at the sun. The solar eclipse glasses will be provided to students to wear on the way home while they exit the building.
The NASA website is a great place to learn more about safety, where and when to watch the eclipse, how to watch live, and what to expect. Families are encouraged to review the website and discuss the importance of safety when viewing the solar eclipse.
If you have further questions or concerns, please direct them to your school nurse or building principal.