Educational Eclipse

Educational Eclipse: Castleberry ISD’s Plan to Safely Embrace Hands-On Learning
Posted on 03/25/2024
Educational Eclipse: Castleberry ISD’s Plan to Safely Embrace Hands-On Learning

Castleberry ISD is eagerly preparing for the Great North American Eclipse, scheduled to occur on Monday, April 8. This celestial event offers a remarkable educational experience for students, allowing them to observe a rare natural phenomenon. Notably, the eclipse coincides with a regular school day, providing an ideal opportunity for hands-on learning.

During this momentous occasion, students will step beyond the confines of their textbooks and classrooms, immersing themselves in the captivating reality of the cosmos. In the days surrounding the event, teachers will incorporate solar eclipse-themed activities into their instruction to enhance the viewing experience for their students.

Joy James Academy of Leadership will welcome Univision Noticias 23 to their campus prior to the big day! Students will have the opportunity to learn more about the solar eclipse from one of the network's meteorologists.

Safety First

It is crucial to remember that looking directly at the Sun, even during an eclipse, can cause permanent eye damage. To facilitate safe viewing of the eclipse, Castleberry ISD will provide certified eclipse glasses to all students in grades K-12 who have parental consent to observe the event. These specially designed glasses will shield students’ eyes from the harmful rays of the sun during the eclipse, as long as they are worn correctly throughout the duration of the event.

On Friday, April 5, all science teachers will conduct an eclipse safety lesson for their students. These safety lessons will educate students on safe viewing methods and associated risks, ensuring that all participants are aware of the seriousness of safety during this event.

Parental Consent

Parents of students in grades K-12 will receive a permission slip via ParentSquare from their student’s teacher (elementary) or campus principal (secondary) during the week of March 25. Parents who wish for their student to participate in the solar eclipse viewing on April 8, 2024, must sign the electronic permission slip.

An alternative activity, such as viewing the event indoors via a live stream broadcast, will be available for students who do not participate in the outdoor observation. 

The Next Total Solar Eclipse

While the upcoming eclipse promises to be a memorable experience, the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. will not occur until August 2045.