Dear Parents/Guardians,
We hope you are having a Blessed Easter season.
As you know, on Monday, April 8, 2024, our region will experience a total solar eclipse. The eclipse will begin as a partial eclipse at approximately 2:00 pm, reach totality at approximately 3:18 pm for roughly 90 seconds, and conclude as a partial eclipse at 4:30 pm.
The Hamilton-Wentworth Catholic District School Board has collaborated with McMaster University to procure a supply of Solar Eclipse glasses, which is being made available to all students and staff.
These glasses are intended to protect individuals from the harmful effects of direct solar exposure during the eclipse. Saying that however, users must strictly follow the provided usage instructions and wear the glasses at all times while observing the eclipse. Failure to do so may result in serious eye damage.
We have been advised that when using the glasses, users are to ensure their eyes are always protected by using solar eclipse viewers that meet international standard ISO 12312-2 for safe viewing. As well you are urged to verify that the glasses are not damaged or scratched before use.
For further information on how to safely view the eclipse and guidelines for the use of solar eclipse glasses, we have included the links below:
HWCDSB website: https://www.hwcdsb.ca/news/what_s_new/p_a_day_change_for_total_solar_eclipse
Canadian Association of Optometrists: https://opto.ca/eye-health-library/solar-eclipse-safety
Safety instructions eclipse glasses which were provided: Eclipse Glasses Safety Info | Safe Solar Eclipse Glasses
City of Hamilton: 2024 Solar Eclipse | City of Hamilton
Hamilton Public Library: Total Solar Eclipse April 8 | HPL
We would like to express our gratitude to McMaster University for their partnership regarding this historic matter.
Patrick J. Daly, Chairperson
David Hansen, Director of Education