Coppell ISD is gearing up for the total solar eclipse April 8 with plans to experience the event with students.

More than 300 North Texas cities will see a total eclipse pass over Dallas-Fort Worth skies. In a total eclipse, the moon will completely cover the sun for up to 4.5 minutes, depending on the viewpoint. DFW won’t see another total eclipse for about 300 years, Total Eclipse DFW founder Jo Trizila previously told Community Impact.

The details

Students at all schools will have the opportunity to view the eclipse, and teachers can decide on specific activities, Superintendent Brad Hunt said. While early childhood and pre-K learners may watch a livestream indoors, most classes will venture outside equipped with glasses and other tools for safe viewing.

“Many of our students and staff are excited about it, and it really is a learning opportunity,” Hunt said.


Notably, Coppell High School's astronomy students will engage in the "Total Eclipse of the Park" event hosted by the city of Coppell at Andrew Brown Park East. The event will feature lawn games, complimentary popcorn, giveaways, eclipse-themed music and other activities before sitting back to watch totality.

“Our parents will have multiple choices, [and] one of those is whether or not they want their children to participate,” Hunt said.

These parents can exercise alternatives for their child, such as having them watch the livestream indoors. However, parental involvement during the eclipse, such as checking in with the front desk to join their child outside, will not be permitted, Hunt said.

Also of note


Despite the event taking place during regular school hours, the district will remain open, with glasses provided to all students and staff. This means excused absences for viewing the eclipse elsewhere will not be granted, Hunt said.

This approach ensures inclusivity and safety while maintaining educational continuity within Coppell ISD, he said.