Published on February 15, 2024 at 6:04 p.m
While several school service centers are still considering how to manage the day of the solar eclipse on April 8, two of them already decided months ago to close their educational institutions to ensure the safety of students.
No lost school days
The Sommets School Service Center and the Hauts-Cantons School Service Center, both located in Estrie, have brought forward an educational day to April 8th so as not to miss a day of classes.
The staff's biggest concern this day is when the eclipse will occur, which is exactly when students will begin their walk or bus ride home.
“I understand that there is a total solar eclipse between 3:25 and 3:30 p.m., this is not the most dangerous moment, but an hour before and an hour after our young people are in the transport school and it is impossible to ensure supervision” says Martial Gaudreau, general director of the Hauts-Cantons school service center.
Mr. Gaudreau added that the decision to move an education day to April 8 was made eight months before the event, giving parents plenty of time to adjust.
The school service centers therefore follow the recommendations of the Estrie Health Department.
Image: Éclipse Québec