March 27, 2024
Dear CH-UH Families and Staff,
On Monday, April 8, the Cleveland area will experience a Total Solar Eclipse between about 3:13 and 3:17 p.m. It is anticipated that our region will see a dramatic increase in visitors the entire day. Emergency management officials are also predicting limited cell phone and radio communication services due to heightened network use during the day.
As we
shared last month, due to these potential challenges around traffic and communication, especially during dismissal time,
we will close all buildings in Cleveland Heights-University Heights City Schools on April 8. Staff and students will not report that day. This decision was made with student safety at the forefront. Below is additional information about the event.
Glasses & Safety
- All CH-UH K-8 schools have received solar eclipse glasses and this one-pager with safety information and instructional activities to distribute to students. High school students were able to request glasses on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The cities and Heights Libraries are also distributing glasses to residents (see below). If you choose to purchase eyewear for the eclipse, ensure that it meets safety requirements.
- The Ohio Emergency Management Agency has compiled useful information, facts, and safety tips related to this once-in-a-lifetime event.
Local Events & Resources
- The City of Cleveland Heights will host a Total Solar Eclipse Watch Party at the Community Center. The City will distribute 2 solar eclipse glasses per family at the event. Enjoy food, a magician, activities, and more.
- University Heights is co-sponsoring “A Blackout to Remember” with the Heights Libraries, with support from Destination Cleveland and WJCU 88.7 FM. City Hall is also planning to deliver two pairs of solar eclipse glasses to each UH household.
- The Heights Libraries will host watch parties throughout the Heights, as well as programming leading up to April 8. Families can also receive solar eclipse glasses at the watch parties on a first-come, first-served basis.
- The Cleveland Museum of Natural History will offer a series of programs and events that will culminate in a viewing party in University Circle's Wade Oval on April 8.
Whatever you plan to do on April 8, please do it safely and have fun!
Sincerely,
Superintendent Liz Kirby