This message is for all CHCCS staff and families:
Chapel Hill-Carrboro will experience a partial solar eclipse (when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth) on the first day back from Spring Break, which is Monday, April 8. We’d like to share some information and plans for school that day:
Safety: A partial eclipse is not safe to look at unless you are wearing special eclipse glasses (also known as “solar filters”.) Everyday sunglasses, no matter how dark, do not provide protection.
- We repeat, you cannot look at a partial eclipse with your naked eyes. Permanent eye damage will occur. Read more about solar eclipse safety here (NASA website).
Timing: In our area, the partial eclipse will begin at 1:58 p.m., hit maximum (80%) coverage at 3:15 p.m., and end at 4:28 p.m. (Source: NASA for ZIP code 27516)
School schedule: Monday, April 8, will be a normal school day in CHCCS. School will dismiss at the usual times for elementary, middle and high schools.
School buses: Will run on their normal schedules.
Viewing the eclipse: Schools are eager to hold instructional lessons and will repeat the safety concerns that day. Students will only be able to go outside and view the event if they are wearing special eclipse glasses.
Special note: We are pleased to share that CHCCS received grant funding to purchase ISO certified eclipse glasses for all 6th grade students and staff, as this event aligns closely to the 6th grade science curriculum. However, CHCCS does not have eclipse glasses for every student and staff member in every grade level. (Schools may be working on arrangements to secure additional eclipse glasses.)
Other details:
- At the elementary level, recess will take place normally and be completed by 1:30 p.m.
- Our principals have been advised to communicate additional eclipse plans in their school-based messages.
We’ll share this information again, and add any updates, prior to April 8. Until then, have a safe and enjoyable Spring Break!
Sincerely,
Andy Jenks
Chief Communications Officer
Eclipse information and resources:
