As you may have heard on the news or radio, a total solar eclipse will occur over a portion of North America on Monday, April 8. New Jersey is not in what is referred to as the “path of totality”–when the entire sun is blocked out by the moon. Residents of New Jersey will experience a partial (88%) solar eclipse (thank you mother nature for creating an awesome science lesson).
The eclipse will begin at 2:08 p.m. and peak at 3:23 p.m. As you are aware, this will coincide with our dismissal times.
Because the partial solar eclipse is not safe to look at (without proper eye protection in the form of “eclipse glasses,” which are NOT the same as regular sunglasses), we are encouraging you to have a conversation with your child about the eclipse and the dangers of looking at the sun while this event occurs.
If you are interested in purchasing proper solar viewers or “eclipse glasses,” the American Astronomical Society has a list of reputable retailers at https://eclipse.aas.org/eye-safety/viewers-filters.
Free eclipse glasses are being made available by Warby Parker (https://www.warbyparker.com/solar-eclipse-2024) and at Rowan University (https://sites.rowan.edu/planetarium/specialevents/), as well.
Please keep in mind that safe solar viewers or “eclipse glasses” are thousands of times darker than sunglasses and should comply with the ISO 12312-2 international standard.
For more information on the solar eclipse and other education resources, please refer to the following resources provided by the Atlantic County Office of Education:
https://airandspace.si.edu/explore/stories/eclipse
https://science.nasa.gov/eclipses/future-eclipses/eclipse-2024/where-when/
https://eclipse2024.org/communities/city/26184.html
Additionally, Absecon Public Library is hosting a “Walking on Sunshine Eclipse Party” 2:30-4 p.m. on Monday, April 8. Registration is required (click here). There will be music, crafts and snacks while viewing the eclipse. Special eclipse glasses will be handed out (1 per person) during the event; extras may be available while supplies last. This is an indoor/outdoor party, so please dress accordingly. Visit https://www.atlanticlibrary.org/absecon_branch for more information.
To view this letter in English, click here.
Para ver esta carta en español, haga clic aquí.