Solar Eclipse August 21st 2017
SouthTech Schools’ Parent,
On Monday, August 21, between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Palm Beach County will experience the effects of a solar eclipse.
Although 80 percent of the sun will be covered by the moon at mid-point of the eclipse, looking at the sun without using special eyewear recommended by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) may result in severe injury to the eyes. While the light may be lessened, harmful radiation is still present in harmful levels. Even regular sunglasses may not offer afford sufficient protection to avoid injury.
I ask that you please speak to your child about the dangers of looking directly at the sun and the potential damage this can cause to their eyes. School staff will reinforce this warning during announcements and teachers will remind students during the duration of the eclipse.
To minimize the likelihood that students will look directly at the sun and risk damaging their eyes, schools will be moving regularly scheduled outdoor activities indoors during the eclipse. Both schools, however, will have to dismiss and transport students during the eclipse. Another warning announcement will be made to students just before dismissal.
Some students may participate in structured eclipse observation activities, using approved eyewear. These activities must have prior approval from the school’s principal.
I also urge all drivers to exercise extreme caution to avoid distracted drivers and pedestrians. The eclipse is a rare opportunity to witness the interaction of our planetary system. Through the exercise of proper caution, the eclipse can be a memorable event. Let’s work together to make it a safe one.
Please click here to view informational articles and resources.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
James R. “Jim” Kidd
Superintendent of SouthTech Schools
On Monday, August 21, between 1:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. Palm Beach County will experience the effects of a solar eclipse.
Although 80 percent of the sun will be covered by the moon at mid-point of the eclipse, looking at the sun without using special eyewear recommended by the American Astronomical Society (AAS) may result in severe injury to the eyes. While the light may be lessened, harmful radiation is still present in harmful levels. Even regular sunglasses may not offer afford sufficient protection to avoid injury.
I ask that you please speak to your child about the dangers of looking directly at the sun and the potential damage this can cause to their eyes. School staff will reinforce this warning during announcements and teachers will remind students during the duration of the eclipse.
To minimize the likelihood that students will look directly at the sun and risk damaging their eyes, schools will be moving regularly scheduled outdoor activities indoors during the eclipse. Both schools, however, will have to dismiss and transport students during the eclipse. Another warning announcement will be made to students just before dismissal.
Some students may participate in structured eclipse observation activities, using approved eyewear. These activities must have prior approval from the school’s principal.
I also urge all drivers to exercise extreme caution to avoid distracted drivers and pedestrians. The eclipse is a rare opportunity to witness the interaction of our planetary system. Through the exercise of proper caution, the eclipse can be a memorable event. Let’s work together to make it a safe one.
Please click here to view informational articles and resources.
Thank you in advance for your cooperation.
James R. “Jim” Kidd
Superintendent of SouthTech Schools
Additional Resources:
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