Shorecrest Solar Eclipse Viewing - Monday, August 21
Source/Author: Rachel Barrett, Director of Marketing & Communications
August 17, 2017
On Monday, August 21, 2017 people in the United States have the rare opportunity to view a total eclipse of the sun. Though St. Petersburg, FL is not directly in the path of totality, the school community intends to view the 81% eclipse at Shorecrest safely and with supervision.
Charles Fulco, a NASA Solar Eclipse Educator, has dispelled many misconceptions about the occurrence and assures us that an eclipsed sun is no more dangerous than the “everyday” sun.
The Astronomy Club and Mr. Napodano will offer a special presentation during Upper School assembly about the eclipse. Teachers in all schools at Shorecrest will provide opportunities for students to view the event and ensure that anyone who is outside during the eclipse avoids dangerous visual contact with the sun.
- Shorecrest has purchased viewing glasses that conform to and meet the requirements of ISO 12312-2 for all students, faculty and staff.
- The glasses and other sources advise that children should view the eclipse only if under the supervision of an adult.
- Experts recommend viewing for no more than 3 minutes while wearing the protective glasses.
- Ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the sun.
- The eclipse glasses are so dark they cannot be worn while moving. One must be standing or sitting still to use them.
Dismissal times and procedures remain the same. If any parents/guardians, particularly those of students in The Experiential School or Lower School, wish to pick up their children prior to the eclipse, they are most welcome to do so. Please notify your school’s office of the planned early departure.
We look forward to sharing this unique experiential learning opportunity with your children.
More Eclipse Resources:
