Schedule Change - Safety Notification Regarding Solar Eclipse on 4.8.2024

Dear Maple Valley Families,

As the historic solar eclipse approaches on April 8, 2024, we want to remind you to keep safety in mind during this event. On that day, between 1:58 pm and 4:30 pm, with the peak at 3:14 pm, the moon will align with the sun, creating a total solar eclipse. We will be at approximately 90% eclipse in our part of the world. 

The peak of the eclipse will occur during our typical release and transport time home.  Because we do not have sufficient staff to supervise students for their safety, we are going to dismiss school according to our half day schedule which can be found on our website. PLEASE make plans for childcare and receiving kids home on a half day schedule to ensure they are supervised during this time. This is a change to our calendar so we wanted everyone to have sufficient time to make your plans. 

Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause serious eye damage. Therefore, it's important for everyone, especially our students, to stay safe while viewing the eclipse. Sunglasses and welding helmets are not sufficient protection.

Please talk to your children about the importance of not looking directly at the sun without proper eye protection. They should use approved solar viewing glasses or viewers that meet safety standards (ISO 12312-2) to observe the eclipse safely. These glasses can be purchased online if you want to plan a family event to watch the eclipse safely. 

For more information on eye safety during a solar eclipse, visit https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/eyewear-viewers

Thank you for your attention to this matter, and we hope everyone has a safe and exciting viewing experience during the solar eclipse.

Sincerely,

Dr. Katherine Bertolini
Superintendent