Cobb County Schools Adapt Schedule for Upcoming Solar Eclipse

Early Release for Students to Witness Celestial Event

Early Release Time

The Cobb County School District has decided to release students early on Monday, August 21, 2017, to allow them to witness the total solar eclipse. The eclipse will be visible in Cobb County, Georgia, at 2:36 p.m. Eastern Time. The district's decision to release students early is in line with other school districts in the path of the eclipse. Releasing students early will allow them to get home safely and avoid the traffic that is expected on the day of the eclipse. It will also give families the opportunity to experience this rare event together.

Viewing Locations

The Cobb County School District has identified several viewing locations for the eclipse. These locations will be open to the public and will have activities for families to enjoy. The locations are:

• Kennesaw State University
• Acworth Sports Complex
• Jim R. Miller Park

Safety Precautions

The Cobb County School District is urging parents to take precautions to keep their children safe during the eclipse. These precautions include:

• Wearing eclipse glasses
• Staying out of the sun's direct path
• Drinking plenty of fluids
• Seeking medical attention if necessary

Safety Precautions and Viewing Guidelines

Instructor Safety Precautions

• Wear approved solar viewing glasses or use other approved viewing devices (e.g., solar telescopes) at all times when viewing the eclipse.
• Supervise students who are using solar viewing glasses or other viewing devices.
• Do not look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. This can cause permanent eye damage, including blindness.
• If you experience any discomfort or pain while viewing the eclipse, stop viewing immediately and seek medical attention.

Student Viewing Guidelines

• Students must wear approved solar viewing glasses or use other approved viewing devices (e.g., solar telescopes) at all times when viewing the eclipse.
• Students should not look directly at the sun without proper eye protection. This can cause permanent eye damage, including blindness.
• Students should be supervised by an adult when using solar viewing glasses or other viewing devices.
• If a student experiences any discomfort or pain while viewing the eclipse, they should stop viewing immediately and report it to an adult.

Community Engagement and Educational Opportunities

Observational Zones and Equipment

• Educational materials such as solar glasses, posters, and brochures will be available to students and the public.
• Designated viewing areas will be set up across the county to ensure safe and optimal viewing conditions.
• Telescopes and other observational equipment will be provided for community members to use, allowing them to have a closer look at the eclipse.

Educational Curriculum and Resources

• Schools will incorporate the eclipse into their science and astronomy curricula, providing students with educational materials and hands-on activities.
• Community outreach programs will offer workshops, lectures, and presentations on the scientific significance and cultural impact of solar eclipses.
• Online resources, including virtual reality simulations and live streaming events, will be made available to students and the community to enhance the learning experience.