On Monday, April 8, 2024, St. Louis will experience the Great North American Eclipse, a deep partial solar eclipse with magnitude 99.1% coverage, an event where the moon passes directly between the Earth and the sun, casting a shadow over our planet and temporarily darkening the skies. Affton School District does plan to be in school that day, and we will provide Eclipse Shades for every student and team member, which meet the CE and ISO requirements for safe viewing.
This natural phenomenon not only offers a unique learning experience but also a moment of collective wonder and curiosity. To ensure that our students can safely enjoy this event, we are coordinating a special viewing session equipped with all necessary precautions. Here's what you need to know:
When is the Solar Eclipse?
Monday, April 8, 2024
Timing in Affton: https://eclipse2024.org/communities/city/23118.html
12:42:41 PM - Partial Phase Begins
2:00:33 PM - Mid-Eclipse
3:17:10 PM - Partial Phase Ends
How will Affton students and staff view the eclipse safely?
All students and staff will be given a pair of Eclipse Shades. The Eclipse Shades meet the CE and ISO requirements for safe viewing.
Since St. Louis is only witness to a deep partial eclipse, viewers must wear eye protection at any point when viewing the eclipse and looking at the sun. Sunglasses do not provide enough eye protection.
NOTE: Eclipse Shades should not be worn when driving.
What precautions are being taken to keep students safe?
Students will be instructed to keep their shades on at all times.
If a student is unable to wear the shades, there are other viewing options:
Looking at the shadows that are made through the leaves
Students can also observe animal noises and insects; all animals act differently during an eclipse
Families may opt out their student from viewing the eclipse at school by completing this form.
Are there resources available to learn more about the Solar Eclipses?