Dear North Reading Community,

I hope this message finds you well. I am reaching out to you with a special request aimed at supporting a meaningful cause in astronomy education and outreach.

The World of STEM club is currently organizing a donation drive to gather solar eclipse glasses for Astronomers Without Borders, a renowned nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting astronomy education and global understanding through various initiatives, including safe solar viewing.

With the upcoming solar events on the horizon, there is an urgent need to ensure that individuals worldwide have access to proper eye protection to safely witness these celestial phenomena. Unfortunately, many communities, particularly in underserved regions, lack the resources to obtain certified solar viewing glasses, putting them at risk of eye damage during solar events.

To address this critical need, we are seeking donations of solar eclipse glasses from Thursday, April 11, 2024 to Friday, May 3, 2024. Your contribution will directly support Astronomers Without Borders' efforts to distribute these glasses to communities around the world, allowing people of all ages and backgrounds to experience the wonder of the cosmos safely.

If you have unused or gently used solar eclipse glasses that meet the ISO 12312-2 international safety standards, we kindly ask you to consider donating them. Your donation will make a significant difference in promoting science literacy, fostering curiosity about the universe, and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beauty of solar events without compromising their eye health.

To donate your solar eclipse glasses or inquire further about the donation process, please contact me at mcaulfield@nrpsk12.org. There is a collection box in the lobby at North Reading High School, or  I can arrange pickup of your donation and provide any necessary assistance throughout the process.

Thank you for considering this request and for your commitment to supporting astronomy education and outreach initiatives. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and inspire a new generation of stargazers worldwide.

Warm regards,

Michelle A. Caulfield, M.Ed., C.A.G.S.

K-12 STEM Coordinator

North Reading Public Schools