Many school systems are delaying dismissals on Monday due to the eclipse. Athens-Clarke, Barrow, Madison, Oglethorpe, and Oconee counties are having late dismissals. Jackson County schools are holding their eclipse viewing activities inside. A post on the system’s Facebook page says the change comes in the wake of media reports concerning potentially unsafe eclipse glasses. Elementary school students will be dismissed at 3:15, while middle and high school students will be released on their normal schedules.
Schools in Hart County in north Georgia are joining other counties around the state including Savannah-Chatham, Liberty, and Gilmer, in closing for the day of the eclipse. Many counties are considering August 21st an inclement weather day, so it will not have to be made up.
Countless other school systems around the state are providing glasses and holding eclipse viewing opportunities at school. Chief Academic Officer Claire Miller says Oconee County is providing NASA-approved glasses and turning the eclipse into an educational opportunity.
“All students will have the opportunity to learn about the eclipse prior to going outside to observe it,” Miller said. “We’re researching and reviewing information that is on the NASA website where they have already created some learning experiences.”
The next time a total eclipse will occur in north Georgia is in 61 years - 2078.
