On Monday, April 8, areas of the United States will experience a rare astronomical event - a total solar eclipse during which the moon will move between the Earth and the sun, blocking out daylight. In Henrico, we will have a partial solar eclipse from 2-4:30 p.m., with peak coverage expected at 3:19 p.m.
During the eclipse, schools will move physical education classes and other activities indoors. This will limit the potential for students to look directly at the sun during the eclipse. Doing so is dangerous and can result in permanent eye damage. Regular sunglasses, swimming goggles and most camera filters are NOT safe for looking directly at the sun.
As an added precaution, HCPS will delay afternoon dismissal for all middle schools by 10 minutes to avoid students being out at the peak of the eclipse without proper protective eyewear.
Afternoon Dismissal Schedule - Monday, April 8, 2024 | |
Elementary schools | Regular schedule |
Middle schools | 10 minutes later than usual |
High schools | Regular schedule |
The following resources may be helpful to families who want to learn more about the solar eclipse, eye safety during an eclipse and local safe viewing opportunities:
Henrico County Public Libraries will host special eclipse programs during the week of Spring Break (April 1-5). Visit the Henrico County Public Libraries calendar for details.
NASA has several online resources, including 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, Eye Safety During a Solar Eclipse and a K-6 website, spaceplace.nasa.gov.