After significant and thoughtful consultation with local emergency service partners and public health units, Lambton Kent District School Board and St. Clair Catholic District School Board have made the decision to change the Professional Activity Day scheduled for Friday, April 26, 2024, to Monday, April 8, 2024.
The decision is due to the number of direct safety concerns associated with the total solar eclipse, which will affect the region The decision is due to the number of direct safety concerns associated with the total solar eclipse, which will affect the region between 2:00 p.m. and 4:30pm on Monday, April 8, 2024.
Solar eclipses and similar natural environmental occurrences have, historically, resulted in a large number of tourists visiting the area. This poses a significant number of safety issues for our students and bus drivers who will be leaving schools and travelling on the roads during the time of the eclipse. We recognize the incredible experiential learning opportunity associated with viewing the solar eclipse, and if our staff, students or families choose to participate in this activity, we encourage them to do so safely. Looking directly at a total solar eclipse can be dangerous due to the intense sunlight that is still present even when the moon is blocking part of or all of the sun. The sun's rays can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the eyes. Regular sunglasses are not sufficient for looking at a solar eclipse as they do not block the harmful solar radiation.
As always, the safety and well-being of our students and staff remains our highest priority. We apologize for any inconvenience that comes as a result of the schedule alteration.
