Solar eclipse 2024: How are DMV schools preparing for the eclipse?
WASHINGTON (DC News Now) — The April 8 solar eclipse is bound to be a spectacle- and schools around the region are preparing accordingly.
What to know about the eclipse
The DMV is outside of the path of totality for Monday’s eclipse — our area is forecasted to only see 87% of the eclipse at maximum visibility or “peak eclipse,” at 3:20 p.m.
When will the eclipse be visible in the DMV? According to the Smithsonian, you can see it in D.C. and the surrounding area from 2:04 p.m. to 4:32 p.m.
You can find interactive maps with visibility here.
How to see the solar eclipse from the National Mall
Are any DMV schools dismissing early?
The time frame of Monday’s eclipse coincides with many schools’ dismissals.
DC News Now reached out to local school systems to ask if any were planning on adjusting dismissal or after-school activities, and most are dismissing as usual.
In an email to DC News Now, Alexandria City Public Schools said that its principals were advised to wait until after 4 p.m. for after-school activities and outdoor sporting events.
Public schools in Falls Church can expect some changes, with sports practices, gym classes, and extended after-school daycare to all take place inside until after the eclipse.
In Maryland, Montgomery County Public Schools said there are no changes to the regularly planned school day, but athletic games have been delayed to 4:45 p.m.
Further west, Washington County Public Schools are dismissing two and a half hours early.
Berkeley County Public Schools in West Virginia is also dismissing early on Monday — the eclipse falls on the same day as a faculty senate day.
“Student safety is always paramount, and this early dismissal will avoid bussing students during the eclipse timeframe,” the school system said in an email to DC News Now.
What to remember if you’re driving during the eclipse
What eclipse resources are schools offering?
Some schools are supplying students with the gear and resources they need to enjoy the eclipse safely and properly.
Arlington Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Francisco Durán announced Thursday that the district will be providing eclipse glasses to all students on Monday to promote safe viewing practices.
Alexandria City Public Schools will also be giving students protective solar glasses.
A message sent to families said, in part, “We encourage you to arrange someone to chaperone your student outside after school on April 8 to be able to observe this rare event. We are also asking staff to take the same precautions.”
Loudoun County Public Schools said that individual schools will decide how to handle the eclipse. A spokesperson told DC News Now that most schools would be incorporating it into lesson plans. The school system has information about the eclipse on its website.
In Falls Church, Oak Street Elementary School, Mount Daniel Elementary School and Mary Ellen Henderson Middle School are providing glasses to students.
While it is not handing out eclipse glasses, Montgomery County Public Schools directed families to their local library to snag a free pair. You can take a look at eclipse-related events here.
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