Safely View the Total Solar Eclipse
Monday, April 8
A total solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8, and will be viewable, depending on weather, in Fairfax County. The eclipse will begin in our area around 2:04 p.m. and end around 4:32 p.m., with the maximum eclipse occurring around 3:20 p.m.
It's a rare and exciting astronomical phenomenon, and one that requires important safety reminders. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can permanently damage your eyes.
Here's what you need to know:
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Don't look at the sun without approved eyewear. This applies to students and staff, and we encourage you to reinforce this at home.
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Regular sunglasses are not good enough. The NASA website has more information about eye safety.
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Eclipse timing: The eclipse starts around 2:04 p.m., peaks at 3:20 p.m. (which coincides with dismissal for some students), and ends around 4:32 p.m. Please remind your child to be especially vigilant about eye safety during dismissal. If you have concerns about your child walking or riding the bus home, please arrange for alternative transportation.
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At HWES, we will not be sending students outside to view the eclipse. Students and staff will be provided with the NASA livestream link as an option to indirectly view the eclipse in their classrooms.
For more details, visit the FCPS Solar Eclipse webpage.
If you plan on taking your child out of school early for this event please fill out our Attendance Form before 12:00 pm on Monday, April 8. Thank you!
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