By Kamryn Peace

When you hear the words “total solar eclipse”, what thoughts come to mind? Excitement, indifference, perhaps even bewilderment? Within the span of the current Woodward Upper School students’ lives, two total solar eclipses have graced the skies of the United States: one on August 21st, 2017, and another just this month on April 8th, 2024. Your recollection of the last total solar eclipse may vary depending on your age and circumstances. However, for Upper School students, the memory of the most recent one is undoubtedly vivid.

Maddie Bailey ‘27 describes her feelings upon hearing about the solar eclipse. 

“When I first learned about the eclipse I wanted to watch it but didn’t really care what was happening,” Maddie said. “The eclipse kept me entertained for like 5 minutes, and then I got bored and went and did something else. I didn’t really set any expectations for it, so it didn’t really have to meet any expectations.”

While some felt bored and disinterested, others including Jennifer Okoli ‘27 entered April 8th with excitement and anticipation but ultimately left with a sense of disappointment. 

“I was ecstatic because I haven’t seen [an eclipse] since 3rd grade,” Jennifer said. “I just borrowed my friend’s glasses and went to the quad outside of the lounge. My mom said ‘She felt like the world went dim,’ when she came to pick us up. ​​I was underwhelmed. It was dark, but I wish it was pitch black.”

Despite the array of emotions swirling about with some embracing the solar eclipse, while others expressing disappointment in its coverage, individuals like Stefano Seta ‘27, remain committed to journeying to witness its totality in 2026.

“I would’ve traveled if it wasn’t during a school day,” Stefano said. “I’m probably going to try to go where total darkness is in 2026.”

Mr. Thomas Ehrensperger, an astronomy, physics, meteorology teacher and probably the most informed on eclipses, shares why he thinks students should care about seeing such a rare phenomenon.

“I like the idea of being awed about… just letting amazing things in nature … take you away,” Mr. Ehrensperger said. “And I can’t think of anything you could ever see. I mean, there are a lot of neat things, you know, there’s auroras and storms and all kinds of stuff. But I think the feeling of wonder and awe is good for you. It makes you curious. It makes you excited. And I’ve never seen anything any more awesome than a total solar eclipse.”