On April 8, 2024, a lot of MTC Job Corps centers had solar eclipse viewing parties around lunchtime on campus.

“They made us funnel cakes and hot dogs and stuff,” says student Camile Keith Lewis. “It was really nice. We were all around campus. It was just fun times. They were playing football and volleyball. It was like a big ol’ family barbecue.”

It was so exciting to watch for both students and staff.

“Well, when I saw the eclipse, I mean, it was amazing. It was amazing to the kids,” says staff Charles Canada.

“It was cool how it got dark within a short period of time,” says student Damyanah Irvin. “And we were like, ‘Okay, we got to catch it. We got to catch it.’ And then it was like as soon as it went away, the sun came right back out.”

A total solar eclipse is when the moon completely blocks the light of the sun. These events are rare and can only be viewed in specific areas for short periods of time, so many centers made a party out of it.

Students at MTC’s Hawaii center enjoyed a partial eclipse bright and early at 6:30 a.m., and they enjoyed watching other parts of the country on TV.

One of the students, John, had this to say about this historic event: “I think it’s very interesting. This is the first time I’ve ever seen it. We read articles on the solar eclipse leading up to this viewing party.”

“It was very fun getting them all together and watch their faces when they see the eclipse come through,” continues Charles.

“I like when we have little Job Corps events. Days where we all get together, eat, come outside together and do stuff together,” says Damyanah.

“It’s always good times and good vibes,” says Camile.