Orange County Public Schools encourages parents to take their children for a vision test before school starts August 24, 2009. The school board, in a unanimous vote at their last meeting, approved a resolution to launch a campaign to promote vision testing awareness among parents.
Undetected vision problems can be a serious barrier to learning. Poorly developed and uncorrected vision makes learning difficult and stressful. This often results in a student avoiding occasions to read, difficulty with comprehension, a short attention span and misbehavior in the classroom.
Although schools screen students with the basic Snelling test for 20/20 vision at a distance, this typically detects only five percent of all vision problems. The ability to see clearly may change frequently during a child’s years in school. Experts recommend that a child should receive an eye examination at least once every two years or more frequently if specific problems exist. Detecting vision problems early makes a difference in future success in school, work and life.
Florida Statute requires vision screening at a minimum to students in grades K, 1, 3 and 6 and students entering Florida schools for the first time in grades K through 5. In Orange County, the Health Department coordinates the vision screenings in county schools by scheduling dates for testing. They are also responsible for training designated school personnel.
The OCPS “See You in School” campaign will emphasize the need for vision testing, coordinate events where testing will be done and help to identify agencies which will provide glasses at no or low cost.
You can learn more at the OCPS “See You in School” Web site at www.ocps.net. There is a link directly off the front page.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT:
Dylan Thomas/Director, Public Relations
407.317.3368
