The purpose of the school-age vision screening program is to identify students with potential visual impairments. Visual problems can and do affect the educational, social, and emotional development of children. Vision screening has been mandated for Pennsylvania school age children since 1957. Early detection of vision problems assures a child of the opportunity of taking the best advantage of his/her educational opportunities.

All students, K-12th grade, are given the opportunity to participate in a vision screening during each school year. It is essential to remember that this is a basic screening that does not evaluate eye health or other important vision skills necessary for success in the school setting. A comprehensive eye and vision examination by an eye care specialist is encouraged to further ensure healthy eyes and good vision, which is a child's best school supply. Talk with your family doctor for further information and eye care specialist recommendations.

Information on Vision and other School Health Screening Programs mandated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health can be found on their website:

http://www.health.pa.gov/My%20Health/School%20Health/Pages/default.aspx

Attention Parents and Guardians of Pre-Kindergarten & Kindergarten Students

RE: NEW VISION EXAMINATION REQUIREMENTS UPON SCHOOL ENTRY

As of October, 2020, Pennsylvania has enacted new legislation (House Bill No. 1342) that states that prior to admission to school (i.e. Kindergarten year), parents or guardians must present proof of a comprehensive eye/vision examination to school health personnel. This examination may be conducted by either a primary healthcare provider or vision care specialist such as an ophthalmologist or optometrist indicating that the child has passed or failed a vision screening within the previous 12 months prior to the start of school.

A school health vision report form may be downloaded here:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1xCrfKRXNGLmnh-Zf64LeJ22V1Olqw8TfSh_Uc4SEWzI/edit (need Access)

House Bill 1342