On April 8th, 2024, the moon covered the sun leaving its path in complete, utter darkness. A total eclipse occurred, which only happens every 18 months, though it can take up to almost 400 years for one to happen in the same location. Here, in central Ohio, many public and private schools were released from school on the day of the eclipse as the darkness was a concern for their safety. This left students with total freedom with how to spend their day, many with plans to watch the eclipse. Junior, Ivy Kleinman, traveled to Richwood, Ohio to experience this once in a lifetime eclipse. “I went to my boyfriend’s, uncle’s house and we had a cookout, it was a lot of fun!” she says.

 The community was super involved in making this day special for everyone. Schools and local libraries gave out free ISO-approved glasses to students and their families. Columbus Metropolitan Libraries (CML) gave out free COSI ‘eclipse kits’ at all 23 locations while supplies lasted. Each kit included glasses, and fun experimental activities for those to do at home with their families. They handed out over 100,000 kits to families around central Ohio. 

FOX 8 broadcasted the eclipse live from Cleveland for those who may not have been able to experience the eclipse first hand. Rylan Pinkstock expresses that she was surprised by the outcome of the eclipse, “when people said it would be completely dark, I expected an overcast but was surprised by the complete darkness.” Many people tend to refer to a total eclipse as a life changing experience. It is seen as a metaphor for endings and new beginnings. If you find that your town is in the path of a total eclipse, the experience can mean a lot more to you than you may think. Plan a picnic, or a fun family get together and make the most of it!