A solar eclipse is a rare event ... and an excuse for missing school.
Our news partners at The Tampa Bay Times report several local school districts will excuse students from school, provided parents write a note.
Hillsborough County will allow parents to pick up their children after a half-day or keep them out all day.
Pinellas County will excuse students with a note.
Pasco will allow a half-day or all-day absence.
All the districts plan steps to protect children's safety, and ask parents to talk to their kids about not staring at the sun.