Dear Parents, Guardians and Caregivers,
We want to share important information about an upcoming Professional Activity (PA) Day at the Toronto District School Board (TDSB). The PA Day originally scheduled for Friday, April 19, 2024 has been rescheduled and will now occur on Monday, April 8, 2024.
We are making this adjustment — approved during last night’s regular Board meeting — due to potential safety concerns with regard to a rare total solar eclipse on Monday, April 8, 2024, that will put parts of Ontario into temporary darkness.
As the eclipse will occur around the dismissal times of many schools, there were concerns that children would be outside and possibly looking directly at the sun, which without appropriate protection, can lead to serious problems such as partial or complete loss of eyesight. There were also traffic-related concerns as students could be walking home in temporary darkness.
This decision, which was made following guidance and consultation with the Ministry of Education, is in line with similar changes announced by other school boards in the Greater Toronto and Golden Horseshoe Area, including the Toronto Catholic District School Board, with which we share student transportation services.
For more information about the Total Solar Eclipse, including how to view it safely, please review information from the Canadian Association of Optometrists.
We understand that this change may impact families' plans for the upcoming PA Day; however, our top priority is always the safety and well-being of our students.
Thank you for your continued support and understanding.
Sincerely,
Colleen Russell-Rawlins
Director of Education