BERKELEY SPRINGS, W.Va — The upcoming solar eclipse is altering plans in one Eastern Panhandle school system.

Morgan County Schools announced on Tuesday that due to April 8th’s solar eclipse, the school system is rescheduling its Faculty Senate early dismissal for April 8th to “coincide with this historic event.”
That early dismissal had been previously scheduled for April 19th.

Morgan County Schools is not the only school district altering plans in order to have students at home on that day instead of at school. Some school systems are concerned about keeping students safe under their watch during the total darkness that will come with the event. Other concerns include keeping students’ vision safe.

The announcement from Morgan County Schools goes on to say, “We believe that witnessing such a rare celestial occurrence can be an educational and memorable experience for our students. Due to the timing of the eclipse and by adjusting the early dismissal date, we aim to provide ample opportunity for everyone to safely observe and appreciate the solar eclipse together.”

“The new date for the Faculty Senate early dismissal is April 8th. April 19th will now be a full school day. We appreciate your understanding and support as we strive to create enriching experiences for our school community,” according to the post.