To All Of Our Chieftain Family,
As Monday's solar eclipse approaches, it is important for the Okolona School District to prioritize the safety and well-being of our students and staff. We understand that witnessing such a rare celestial event can be an exciting experience, but it is crucial to take necessary precautions to ensure everyone remains safe during the eclipse.
Here are some safety guidelines that OMSSD recommends implementing:
1. Do not look directly at the sun without appropriate eye protection. The harmful rays of the sun can cause permanent damage to your eyesight. Provide approved solar viewing glasses or indirect viewing methods, such as pinhole projectors, for all students and staff members.
2. Teachers and staff should supervise students at all times to prevent any accidental exposure to the sun. Ensure that students understand the dangers of looking at the sun without proper eyes protection and that they follow the guidelines provided.
3. If students and staff are planning to observe the eclipse outdoors, remind them to protect their skin by wearing sunscreen and/or appropriate clothing to reduce the risk of sunburn.
4. Instruct students to avoid using makeshift tools or devices to view the eclipse, as these may not provide adequate protection and could pose additional risks.
5. Encourage students to experience the eclipse safety by watching live streams or coverage of the event if a safe viewing location is not available.
6. Take additional precautions for students with special needs or medical conditions to ensure their safety and well-being during the eclipse.
By following these safety precautions, we can all enjoy the eclipse experience responsibly and without any harm.
Thank you for your attention to this matter, and let's work together to make Monday's eclipse a memorable and safe event for everyone in the Okolona School District.
Sincerely,
Dr. Paul Moton