Why Michigan Schools Need To Dismiss Early On April 8

In my opinion, April 8 should be a 1 PM or sooner dismissal across the board. That means any school that isn't on spring break needs to shut down early.

Why?

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What Is Happening On April 8th?

April 8, 2024, is when Michigan will be witnessing a near-total solar eclipse.

Detroit Free Press says that.

"Solar eclipses occur when the moon passes directly between the sun and Earth’s orbits, creating an eclipse of Earth’s view of the sun."

The solar eclipse will begin at 1:58 pm and reach maximum totality around 3:14 pm.

It should end with a final partial eclipse at 4:27 pm.

Why Michigan Schools Need To Dismiss Early On April 8?

Now the biggest issue is the timing of the eclipse, which is happening during the afternoon hours.

That means that the eclipse will be already happening during the usual 3 PM school dismissal time.

While some schools do let out at 2 PM, Michigan schools might want to consider pushing the dismissal time a little bit more.

You are probably thinking that this is not that big of a deal.

While you are partly correct, the kids will be in the building when it starts but once the kids are let out, the teachers and staff will not be responsible for keeping them safe.

If the kids look up at the sun during the eclipse without sun protection, that could damage their eyes.

ARPANSA says that,

"Exposing your eyes to the sun without proper eye protection during a solar eclipse can cause retinal burns (solar retinopathy). The retina has no sensitivity to pain, and since the effects of retinal damage may not appear for hours, there is no warning that an injury to your eye has occurred."

That is why I am thinking that Michigan schools dismiss early or keep the kids longer on April 8th.