Science Teacher Chris Hardman also led an excursion with 13 students to the Green Mountain State to witness the total eclipse, a trip marked by unexpected detours and serendipitous outcomes. Initially aiming for Lancaster, NH, the group faced heavy traffic and potential delays, prompting a change in their destination to St. Johnsbury, VT.

“We parked the bus at 3:20 p.m, and totality occurred 7 minutes later,” Hardman said. “Totality lasted for just over 90 seconds, which was longer than our original planned location that had less than a minute, so it worked out great,” Hardman said.

Gabe Cohen ’27 felt inspired by the celestial display, viewing it from School’s field.

“Looking up, I couldn’t help but feel amazed at how we are such a small but important part of the universe,” Cohen said. “It really makes you think about the vastness of space.”

“As the moon completely covered the sun the temperature noticeably dropped, and the stars and a couple of planets all popped out,” Hardman said. “One of the most interesting sights was the 360 degree ‘sunset,’ as the horizon in all directions glowed with light of the sun.”

Before students witnessed the eclipse, science teachers Matt Gallon and Cecelia Pan addressed the community about the celestial event—including how to observe it safely with special glasses, which the School purchased.