School Vision Health Month 2018

For the second year in a row, during the month of October the New York State Optometric Association partnered with the New York State Education Department, the New York State Society of Opticians, and VSP Global® Eyes of Hope® on the School Vision Health Month initiative, which provides students in under-served areas of the state with access to no-cost eye exams and glasses through a series of school-based mobile clinics. Each participating school also receives a supply of Sight for Students® gift certificates, to ensure that school nurses can continue to refer students for eye care and glasses throughout the year.

The New York State Legislature has proclaimed October as School Vision Health Month to raise awareness about the importance of comprehensive eye exams for students. Research shows that children who are struggling in school often have undiagnosed vision needs. Thanks to the efforts of our volunteer ODs and dedicated partners, this program ensures that deserving students receive the eye care and eyewear they need to help them get the most out of their education.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to all the NYSOA members who offered their time and expertise to provide eye exams this year. We also thank Optometry Cares – The AOA Foundation for their generous support of School Vision Health Month through the Healthy Eyes Healthy Children Community Grants program.

School Vision Health Month by the Numbers

Schools Visited: 5

Volunteer ODs: 7

Students who received exams: 179

Free glasses provided: 135

Sight for Students gift certificates left behind: 140

NYSOA Member Volunteers

Dawn Chivers, OD
Robert Fox, OD
Lauren Pierson, OD
Justin Smith, OD
Victor Vuong, OD
Kimberly Wadas, OD
Paul Westfall, OD

Clinic Sites

Oct. 11-12: W.C. Keane Elementary School, Schenectady, NY
Oct. 15: Camden Elementary School, Camden, NY
Oct. 16: McNulty Academy, Amsterdam, NY
Oct. 17: Gansevoort Elementary, Rome, NY
Oct. 18: Staley Elementary, Rome, NY

Media Coverage

Times Union – Free eye exams for Schenectady elementary students