The Canal Winchester Local School District Board has decided to close schools for a full day on April 8, 2024, to ensure student safety during a partial solar eclipse. Originally planned as a two-hour early release, the board opted for a full closure after considering the potential risks of students being on buses during the eclipse's onset. Superintendent shared concerns about young children inadvertently looking at the sun while traveling, emphasizing that it would be challenging to instruct them not to do so.

The decision also allows families and staff to experience the rare celestial event together. Traffic reports indicated that many would be traveling to areas of totality, which could lead to delays for school buses. The board noted that this closure follows the spring break, making it a more suitable choice for the community.

In addition to the eclipse discussion, the board addressed enrollment trends, noting an increase in preschool students. A new half-day classroom was added to accommodate this growth, which is part of a broader trend seen across Central Ohio. The district is managing these changes while ensuring that classrooms remain balanced.

The meeting also highlighted that while 144 students left the district this school year, the district experienced a net gain of 137 students due to new enrollments. The reasons for students leaving varied, with most transferring to other districts within Ohio, while a small percentage moved to private schools or out of state.

As the district navigates these changes, the board remains focused on maintaining a safe and supportive environment for all students, while also celebrating community events like the upcoming eclipse.