Knoch Elementary Families,
We are writing to inform you about an exciting educational opportunity for your child on April 8—the upcoming solar eclipse. As you may know, the eclipse provides a unique chance for students to witness a natural phenomenon and learn about astronomy firsthand.
In preparation for this event, we have made arrangements to have eclipse viewing glasses generously donated to the school. If students keep their glasses on throughout the event, these glasses will allow your child to safely observe the eclipse. Students in grades 2-5 will have the opportunity to go outdoors and view this event. Due to the potential vision damage that the eclipse presents, Kindergarten and first grade students will not be going outside to view the eclipse but will instead be taking part in classroom learning activities related to the eclipse. If your child is in grades 2-5 and you do permit them to participate, we require your written consent. We ask that you complete the permission slip included with this letter and return it to your child’s teacher. Children who do not return a signed permission slip will not be permitted to go outdoors to view the eclipse.
The peak viewing time for the eclipse in Butler County is estimated to be from 3:15 to 3:25 p.m. Therefore, while the peak of the eclipse event will occur shortly before the dismissal of our elementary students, the event itself will be underway during dismissal. Our plan is to provide all students with their eclipse glasses before they exit the building at 3:40 p.m. for dismissal. Students will be required to wear the glasses as they exit the buildings and will immediately get on their buses.
To ensure the safety of all students, we urge you to have a conversation with your child about the dangers of looking directly into the sun without proper eye protection. Emphasizing the importance of using the provided eclipse glasses during the viewing, dismissal, and the bus ride home is crucial for their safety. The Pennsylvania Department of Education has released valuable eclipse resources that might be of interest.
We understand that some parents may have concerns and may prefer to keep their students home for the day. If you wish to keep your child home or would like to arrange for an early dismissal on April 8, please check the box on the permission slip and sign or notify the school attendance office in writing or via email to [email protected] or [email protected] as appropriate. Your child's absence on this day will be excused.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding the eclipse viewing or the arrangements we have made, please do not hesitate to contact your building principal. We are committed to ensuring that this experience is both educational and safe for all students. Thank you for your cooperation and support.
Respectfully,
David Foley, Ed.D.Superintendent