Solar Eclipse Information- Please complete the form if you want to OPT your child out from viewing the eclipse. 

On April 8, 2024, our area will experience a 90% total solar eclipse. This rare celestial event has captured the interest and imagination of people throughout the district and area. In order to support the learning environment in our schools, Paola USD 368 will focus on the following learning objectives for the day as it relates to the eclipse:

 1. Student and staff safety

2. Kansas State Science Standards

 The district has secured enough solar filter safety glasses that meet the specifications and requirements outlined by NASA.  As your child(ren) prepare for school in the next week please take a few minutes to talk with them about the eclipse and safe viewing. NASA offers the following resource to guide conversations: https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/safety/.  Teachers will be reviewing and reinforcing this information with students as well before viewing.

 As a safety precaution during the timing of the eclipse, schools will not be scheduling outdoor recess when the eclipse is at its strongest viewing in our area (approximately 12:40-3:10).

 For classes planning to go outside to view the eclipse, staff will take precaution when supervising students to ensure solar filter glasses remain on each student while viewing.

 Parents have the ability to opt their child(ren) out of outdoor viewing. Please communicate directly with your child’s teacher/school if you would like to opt your child out.