Kearney Public Schools will be celebrating the total solar eclipse on Monday, August 21, 2017. We want to make this once-in-a-lifetime event something our students will remember forever. Here is some information to help understand this exciting event:

When is the Total Solar Eclipse?
Monday, August 21, 2017 at 12:57pm.  
A partial eclipse will begin around 11:30 am and last about 87 minutes. This will lead in to the Total Solar Eclipse at 12:57:30pm which will last approximately 1 minute and 54 seconds in Kearney. Then another partial eclipse will last approximately 90 minutes. A total eclipse has not been viewed for 500 years and it will be another 500 years before another total eclipse.

What happens during the eclipse?
Around 11:30am it will get dark as if it is dusk, but because it happens so fast it will feel much darker and we will notice things we experience at night, like the temperature will drop about 10 degrees and the brightest stars will be visible. The most amazing sight happens when we are able to view the sun’s corona (atmosphere) which appears as a wispy shape around the moon. At 12:57, the moon will completely block the sun for almost two minutes creating a total solar eclipse.

How will students safely view the eclipse?
Our primary goal at Kearney Public Schools is keeping our students safe. Students and staff will wear special, NASA approved solar eclipse glasses to protect their eyes and will receive full direction in how to use them for safe viewing. The KPS staff started lessons last spring and has worked with community experts to build awareness and safety.

Will everyone see the eclipse?
Assuming weather is clear and calm on eclipse day, all KPS staff and students in grades 1-12 – who have not opted to stay indoors – will participate directly. Kindergarten will have a half day schedule on August 21, but will still get the same cool eclipse glasses to take home.

How can families learn more about the events happening at each school?
Ask your child’s school about events planned that day.

What if I want my child to stay inside and have a virtual experience?
Contact your child’s school for an opt-out form and return it to your child’s school during first week of school or CLICK THIS LINK FOR THE OPT OUT FORM

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The 2017-2018 KPS Magazine is out.   The school calendar can be pulled from the center section to keep you up-to-date on school days off and holidays.  Read about the new school apps for iPhone and android, KCLC after school program, Junior Achievement, College and Career readiness, the KPS Foundation, CLASS Act and so much more.  

FLIP THROUGH OUR MAGAZINE BY CLICKING THIS LINK.