AUSTIN, Texas — On April 8, a rare total solar eclipse lasting less than five minutes will cast parts of Central Texas into darkness around 1:36 p.m.

Districts Grant Day Off to Celebrate Eclipse

In anticipation of this celestial event, several Central Texas school districts have decided to grant students and staff a day off to observe the phenomenon. These include:

• Manor Independent School District
• Burnet Independent School District
• Liberty Hill School Independent School District
• Wimberley Independent School District
• Blanco Independent School District
• Dripping Springs Independent School District
• Boerne Independent School District
• Fredericksburg Independent School District
• Marble Falls Independent School District
• Harper Independent School District
• Johnson City Independent School District
• Lago Vista Independent School District

Manor ISD’s Decision

Manor ISD, one of the districts making this decision, cited concerns over predicted extreme traffic conditions during the eclipse. The district consulted with local authorities and decided to declare April 8 a student holiday. While students enjoy the day off, staff members are required to work in-person until at least noon, with the possibility of finishing remotely.

Burnet ISD’s Holiday Approval

Burnet ISD also marked April 8 as a holiday for both students and staff, as approved by the Board of Trustees the previous year.

AISD’s Approach

In contrast, Austin Independent School District (AISD) opted not to declare a holiday but will provide protective glasses for students to

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