April 2, 2024

Dear Council Rock Community,

As you may know, a partial solar eclipse will occur on Monday, April 8. This extraordinary astronomical event will be observable in the daytime sky. Assuming clear skies, at peak eclipse 91% of the Sun’s light will be blocked in our area. The eclipse will begin at approximately 2:08 PM, peak in our area at 3:23 PM, and conclude by 4:35 PM.

After carefully considering the alternatives, and in consultation with our insurance company, other Bucks County school districts, and our solicitor, Council Rock Schools will operate on a half-day early dismissal schedule on Monday, April 8.

Early Dismissal Schedule

• High school dismissal: 10:45 AM
• Middle school dismissal: 11:30 AM
• Elementary School dismissal: 12:15 PM

Please note:

• AM Kindergarten will attend
• AM MBIT classes are in session, and PM MBIT classes are canceled.
• No Council Rock outdoor activities, practices, or events will occur between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM.
• Any outdoor activities, practices, or events are delayed until after 5:00 PM on April 8.

Due to the safety risk associated with the eclipse, The Pennsylvania Department of Education considers an early dismissal on the day of the eclipse for safety purposes to be an early dismissal for inclement weather. Since early dismissals for inclement weather are defined as instructional activities (22 Pa. Code §11.8), the day will count as a full day of instruction. They also list safety guidelines for the public.

We have compiled a list of publicly available solar eclipse resources for your reference, available on our website at www.crsd.org, or attached to this message.

Thank you,

The Council Rock Administrative Team