At Poland Schools, many students are excited at the news of one more day of our spring break, but have we really looked into why? On April 8, 2024, a total solar eclipse will pass America. Spring break kicks off March 28 for our school, but we got news of an extra day added to the end. Students have been given a day off for a chance to witness this historic event firsthand, and here is why you should.

What exactly is a solar eclipse you may ask? This is an extraordinary event where the moon passes between the sun and the earth at just the right time to temporarily block the sun from view. Total solar eclipses only happen every 1 to 3 years, but they are only visible from the earth’s poles.

The last total eclipse we had was in August 2017, and unfortunately, the next may be our last we can see for a long time. According to experts, April 8 will be the last total eclipse visible to us in Ohio until 2099, so this may be the last time most of us can see it. By the time the next one rolls around, high school students now would be in our early 90s.

Although the eclipse will pass through Ohio’s line of sight, it doesn’t mean we all can see it. Since this event is so precise, Ohioans will only be able to see it near the Akron/ Cleveland area on April 8. It is also important to remember safety.

A solar eclipse should never be directly looked at with the naked eye, even during partial phases of it. Approved protective glasses made just for viewing the eclipse are available in many convenient stores or on the internet like Amazon. Do not use sunglasses as a replacement; they do not give great protection against this.

 April 8 should be another enjoyable day of spring break, but take a minute to consider turning into a once in a lifetime experience.