On Monday, August 21, 2017, the St. Louis area will be in the path of a solar eclipse when the moon blocks part of the sun. It’s being referred to as The Great American Total Solar Eclipse because it will be visible on a path across the entire continental United States.
Parents and students, August 21 is a full day of school. Lesson plans have been developed leading up to the solar eclipse to include an art contest, read alouds, science activities and a structured, supervised opportunity to view the eclipse.
It’s expected to begin at 11:54 a.m. and end at 2:42 p.m.; nearly 90 percent of the sun will be covered at 1:19 p.m.
Safety during the eclipse is our top priority
Confluence purchased glasses for students and staff that meet the requirements for international safety standards and feature ISO and CE trademarks.
Looking directly at the sun is unsafe. Precautionary measures will be taken to protect students:
- All students who participate in viewing the eclipse outside are required to wear the glasses provided by Confluence. Students may not bring any glasses from home.
- Physical education classes scheduled during the eclipse will be held indoors.
- Students will have indoor recess during the time of the eclipse.
- Parents can choose to opt-out of participation for their child. Letters and forms will be sent home with students by Thursday, August 17.
- If a parent or guardian decides to have their student remain inside during the eclipse, they will have the opportunity to watch the eclipse via a live broadcast.
Where can you learn more about the eclipse?
Information to help you prepare for the eclipse is available from every source – from the public library to NASA to local radio. Here are a few to consider:
St. Louis Public Library – https://www.slpl.org/news/total-solar-eclipse/
Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education – https://dese.mo.gov/communications/eclipse
NASA - https://www.nasa.gov/press-release/nasa-recommends-safety-tips-to-view-the-august-solar-eclipse
American Academy of Ophthalmology – https://www.aao.org/eye-health/tips-prevention/safe-solar-eclipse-viewing-infographic