GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. — Gwinnett County Public Schools will delay dismissal by one hour Aug. 21 to ensure safe viewing of the eclipse and a safe dismissal.
A near-total eclipse will occur between 2:35 and 2:40 p.m in Gwinnett County and will last approximately two minutes.
The moon will move between and sun and the Earth, blocking the light of the sun.
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Gwinnett County high school students are usually dismissed shortly after 2 p.m., and elementary students are normally released at 2:45 p.m.
The district said it felt a one-hour delay will allow for better supervision of students during the eclipse.
"It would be difficult to monitor students who are being dismissed or those who are riding on school buses during the eclipse," said Dr. Jonathan Patterson, associate superintendent for curriculum and instructional support. "In addition to addressing safety concerns associated with the eclipse, the delay will provide more time for us to make this a special educational event for our students, allowing us to organize safe and engaging viewing experiences for students."
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