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WPS: Solar Eclipse 2024

Posted Date: 4/02/24 (2:07 PM)
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WILTON PUBLIC SCHOOLS
395 Danbury Road
Wilton, Connecticut 06897



 
Kevin Smith, Ph.D.
Superintendent of Schools
Charles Smith, Ed.D.
Assistant Superintendent
Curriculum and Instruction
Andrea Leonardi
Assistant Superintendent
Special Services
Maria Coleman
Director, Human Resources and General Administration
Dawn Norton
Chief Financial Officer

April 2, 2024


Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers: 


As you may be aware, next Monday, April 8th, we will have the opportunity to experience a rare solar eclipse (the next solar eclipse Connecticut will occur on May 1, 2079!). The moon will start to move in front of the sun at approximately 2:13pm and maximum coverage (for our region about 92% of the sun will be covered by the moon) will occur around 3:27pm. At the peak of the eclipse, light levels will be comparable to dusk. 


In recognition of this unique event, lessons will be presented to students at each of our schools including information about safe viewing.  The district has purchased and will distribute on Monday solar eclipse glasses for all students and staff at Miller-Driscoll, Cider Mill, and Middlebrook, and a limited number for staff and students at Wilton High School. These are specialized glasses that meet the transmission requirements of ISO 12312-2 to enable safe viewing. 


The timing of the eclipse makes it difficult to accommodate viewing at all of our schools. The eclipse will occur during dismissal at Cider Mill. Staff members at Miller-Driscoll and Middlebrook will bring students outside so they may view the eclipse using the glasses we are providing. Wilton High School science teachers are excited to teach about this event and will also take their classes out to experience it. 


Please join us in reinforcing the message for students that the only safe way to view the eclipse is through specialized glasses or a handheld solar viewer. 


We have no plans to alter our after school schedules and encourage you to reach out to building administrators with any specific questions. 


Below please find some additional resources about solar eclipses. We hope that you will also be able to take some time from your busy schedules to observe and appreciate this special phenomenon. 



Sincerely, 

Kevin J. Smith, Ph.D.

Superintendent of Schools