Please note that our schools will be closed for a scheduled break from March 29, 2024, through April 5, 2024. Classes will resume on Monday, April 8, 2024, which is also the day when a partial solar eclipse is expected to take place between approximately 2:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
Monday, April 8, will remain a normal school day for our district. However, we recognize the importance of ensuring the safety of our students during this event, especially since it coincides with our dismissal time.
SDPC has purchased solar viewing glasses for all students and employees. Parents and guardians are encouraged to talk to their students about the importance of wearing safety glasses as they are not just accessories, but essential tools to ensure their eyes are protected when attempting to view the sun.
Since we are in an area where there will be only partial coverage of the sun, eclipse glasses will be necessary when looking directly at the sun. Please emphasize to your child the importance of NOT looking directly at the sun without these glasses. The glasses we will provide students exceed the ISO standard 12312-2 for viewing the sun.
While our schools plan to provide a safe educational experience, we understand that some parents may not want their children to participate in the viewing of the partial eclipse.
To provide options for our families, here are the attendance/dismissal options for Monday, April 8, 2024:
Early Dismissal - Pick Up by 1:00 p.m: If you plan to pick up your child early on this day, please ensure that you sign your child out of school by 1:00 p.m.
Principal Approved/Excused Absence: If you choose this option, your student will be counted as absent, but it will be marked as an excused absence. This would allow your family to attend an alternative event in the area.
Regular Dismissal: We will operate a normal dismissal for students who did not choose the other options. We will dismiss bus students and car riders remaining at school at this time.
For additional resources on solar eclipse safety and information, please visit the following links:
We look forward to providing a safe and educational experience for our students during the partial solar eclipse. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact your child's school.