Tuesday, Feb. 6, 2024

Local boards changing PA day due to solar eclipse

The four local school boards – Conseil scolaire catholique Franco-Nord, Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario, Nipissing-Parry Sound Catholic District School Board and Near North District School Board – have collaboratively decided to switch the PA day scheduled on April 26 to Monday, April 8 because of the solar eclipse.  April 26 will therefore be a regular school day.

The switch was made to ensure the safety of students. The eclipse will occur around dismissal time; there is concern for both traffic-related issues as there will be temporary darkness, as well as the possibility that students will try to watch the eclipse and risk damaging their eyesight.

In fact, the Canadian Association of Optometrists has issued a set of guidelines for safe viewing of the eclipse.  We invite you to consult their website to better understand the risks that influenced this decision.

The school boards are aware of the challenges that this change to the school calendar may entail, and we thank you for your understanding.

The boards are also grateful for the support of Nipissing Parry Sound Student Transportation Services , childcare centres and many employee groups in helping to facilitate this change.

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