Dear Parents/Guardians,
As you may already know, regions of the United States are gearing up for a special natural phenomenon: a full or partial solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024. In Hicksville, we anticipate a 90% partial solar eclipse from 2:11 p.m. to 4:36 p.m., with the peak occurring at 3:26 p.m.
Please be aware that April 8, 2024, will proceed as a regular instructional day for students. We have provided our teachers K-12 eclipse-themed lessons and resources for the day. In anticipation of this event, we wish to share the following:
Protective Eyewear: We've procured certified solar viewing glasses for all K-5 students, meeting the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for direct solar viewing. In addition, we have glasses for all High School and Middle School students who returned signed permission slips and will be participating in our scheduled Eclipse Viewing Event. Students should not look at the eclipse unless they have been provided safety glasses.
Elementary Recess and Physical Education Classes: Recess and physical education classes scheduled before 2 p.m. will proceed as usual, while those after 2 p.m. will be moved indoors.
Dismissal Procedures: As the eclipse peak aligns with dismissal, our typical dismissal procedures will be followed. Buses may experience slight delays departing schools, with students arriving at their bus stops later than usual due to anticipated traffic in the community. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
After-School Activities & Athletics: Scheduled High School activities and athletics will proceed as planned. At present, Section VIII has not canceled or delayed any games. We will collaborate with coaches to review safety protocols, with all athletic competitions commencing after the eclipse peak. Middle School practices will be canceled for the day.
If you want to learn more about the Solar Eclipse you can find information and resources at:
Thank you for your cooperation and support in prioritizing the safety and well-being of our students. We're all about making sure this experience is safe, educational, and fun for everyone involved. Should you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to contact your building principal.
Yours in Comet Pride,
Ted Fulton, Ed.D.
Superintendent of Schools