Vision Screening Overview and Setup

The Vision Improvement Program screening process is the standard method for schools to identify children with functional vision issues. Consistent implementation of these procedures is vital for having a program that recognizes and helps children effectively.

Pre-Screening Planning

Grade Selection:

• Determine which grade(s) to screen - all children in selected grades must be screened
• Individual students from other grades may be screened upon teacher, staff, or parent request
• Complete grade-level screenings before individual screenings
• Do not screen kindergarten children until December at the earliest

Preparation Requirements:

• Print labels with child's full name, birth date, and student number for each child
• Allow 10-15 minutes per child for screening
• Schedule consecutive screening days
• Plan for screener breaks (no more than 5 hours of screening)
• Arrange student transportation to/from screening location

Physical Environment Setup

Room Requirements:

• Quiet, well-lit setting
• Chair height allowing child's feet to touch the floor
• Drawing surface at appropriate height for comfortable sitting
• Plain wall behind screener (no posters, pictures, or vibrant colors)
• No windows facing child/screener unless covered

Screener Preparation:

• Wear simple, non-distracting clothing (no patterns, minimal jewelry)
• Have all materials ready: colored wands, occluder, forms, blank paper, sharpened pencils
• Position scoring sheet beside you for post-subtest recording