March 18, 2024
Dear Parents, Guardians, and Gibbstown Community Members:
415 Swedesboro Road
Gibbstown, NJ08027 Dr.Jennifer Foley, Principal/Chief School Administrator
Phone 856-224-4900, Ext 2132
Fax 856-224--5761
JFoley@gtsdk.8.us

On April 8, 2024, there will be a total solar eclipse. During this event, the Moon will move 
directly between the Sun and Earth, completely obscuring the Sun. Our region will experience a 
partial solar eclipse. As exciting as this event is, however, it is unsafe to view it without 
proper protection as viewing it can cause eye damage or even blindness.

The National Science Foundation has stated that during an eclipse, "looking directly at the Sun is 
unsafe except during the brief total phase called totality." Before and after this phase, the only 
safe way to view the event is through special-purpose solar filters or hand-held solar viewers. 
"Homemade filters or ordinary sunglasses, even very dark ones, are not safe for looking at the 
Sun."

We have included information on how to view the solar eclipse safely on our website and within the 
broadcast. You can find more information regarding this issue on the National Science Foundation's 
website.

The anticipated viewing window will be from approximately 2:00pm until 4:30pm and occurs as our 
schools are dismissing students for the day. We will provide age and grade appropriate instruction 
to students about the solar eclipse and we encourage all parents to reinforce the importance of 
safety precautions for viewing. Should any parent have concern about their child traveling home, 
either as a walker or rider, as a result of the solar eclipse, please reach out to your school 
building and make arrangements to pick up your child.

Please reach out to your building principal should you have any further questions or concerns 
regarding this matter.




Dr. Jennifer Foley