INDIANAPOLIS -- Some central Indiana schools are changing their schedule on Monday because of the solar eclipse, others are dismissing normal but will still be offering options for students to participate in eclipse viewing parties at school.
A solar eclipse will be visible on a path across the entire continental United States. In central Indiana, the eclipse will begin at 12:57 p.m. and end at 3:48 p.m. with the best viewing time predicted to occur at 2:24 p.m.
The only safe way to view a solar eclipse is through certified protective eyewear designed specifically for solar viewing.
A majority of the school systems in central Indiana are not changing their dismissal times because of the eclipse, but advise parents to talk to their child about keeping their eyes safe while on their way home from school.
Franklin Community Schools will be starting an hour late on Monday and students will be dismissed after the eclipse viewing period is over. This means all buses will be operating on the adjusted schedule.
You can see a full list of Monday start and dismissal times for Franklin Community Schools on their website.
Monroe County Community School Corporationwill be holding all elementary students until the eclipse viewing period is over, just before 4 p.m. All middle and high school students will be released at their normal times.
Since the eclipse will be at its peak near dismissal times for many schools, some are offering eclipse viewing parties and other options to students including special programs and online viewing opportunities.
Most schools will also be suspending all outdoor activities, including recesses and PE classes, between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. for the safety of students.
The following schools are offering eclipse viewing options to their students:
- Westfield Washington Schools
- Community School Corporation of Southern Hancock
- Indianapolis Public Schools
- Hamilton Southeastern Schools
- Plainfield Community School Corporation
- MSD Wayne Township
- Tippecanoe SchoolCorporation
Most of these schools require parental consent forms to be signed and returned by Monday morning. If eclipse viewing information is not available on your the website for your child's school check their folder on Friday for any important information or contact the school system with any questions.
If your school system has sent home information regarding late dismissal or eclipse viewing plans you can email those notices to us at news@wrtv.com.
