2024 Solar Eclipse Update: No School on Monday, April 8

The first and most important priority as a public school district is the safety and security of our students, staff and guests. As many people might be aware, on Monday, April 8, 2024, parts of Ohio will witness a total solar eclipse for the first time since 1806. This incredibly rare and significant event will take place near Forest Hills School District, and our community will be able to see an awe-inspiring 99% sun coverage.

Due to the extraordinary nature of a total solar eclipse, which will not happen again in Ohio until 2099, it is likely that the greater Cincinnati area will experience an influx of travelers throughout the day and especially during the duration of the eclipse. Additionally, there are some concerns about distracted drivers and potential traffic issues related to the eclipse, which could impact student dismissal from school and the safety of staff members who may need to drive home through areas that could be more significantly impacted. As more and more area schools make the decision to cancel, it also causes a ripple effect from a staffing standpoint as we have employees whose own families may be impacted. The district has been closely monitoring new information and circumstances, including additional precautions taken recently by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, various state agencies and local municipalities and schools.

Forest Hills School District will be closed for students and staff (as a calamity day) on April 8, 2024. All after-school activities, practices and games will be rescheduled.

Here in Forest Hills, the partial solar eclipse will begin at 1:52 p.m., reach its maximum of 99% coverage at 3:09 p.m., and it will end at 4:25 p.m. This will surely be a once-in-a-lifetime sight for many in our community. For families who want to watch the eclipse at home or those who may drive a short distance to see the total eclipse, FHSD is partnering with our wonderful PTA and PTO groups to provide all students PK-12 with certified solar eclipse glasses. Those will be distributed prior to the start of spring break.

This incredible experience offers a valuable learning opportunity for our students. Some classes have already introduced lessons to explain the details of this celestial event, and all students will have the chance to learn about the eclipse in school so they can understand and appreciate its significance.

The district will resume normal operations on Tuesday, April 9, 2024. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation in ensuring the safety and well-being of our school community.