Central Okanagan Kindergarten students are seeing 20/20 after a new pilot program.
At no cost, these students can now receive eye exams and prescription glasses, thanks to the program created in a collaborative effort between between BC Doctors of Optometry (BCDO) and Central Okanagan Public Schools and funded by Pacific Public Health Foundation (PPHF).
"We're glad so many of our students will get their educational journey started right with the chance to see clearly," said Kevin Kaardal, Superintendent of Schools/CEO. "We're already seeing success as this pilot starts, so we hope that success will eventually extend this project to more families across the district."
According to a press release from the school district, 80 per cent of learning is visual, and early vision detection and correction can make a difference in a child's academic success.
"Vision is more than just seeing clearly. Vision affects how much effort it takes for a child to read, it impacts their attention span, and it reflects in how confidently they see themselves," said Dr. Sophia Capo, a children’s optometrist, member of the BCDO Children’s Vision Committee, and Leader of the Okanagan School Vision Project. "Early intervention and management are necessary, and we are dedicated to ensuring that Kindergarteners in our district are set up for success."
Optometrists will be going to multiple Central Okanagan schools during school hours to provide one-on-one eye exams. After the exam, the students will be given their a written copy of the results to take home to their parents. If the optometrist finds that a child has vision problems, they will contact the family directly to follow up. If a child needs glasses, BCDO will provide them, funded through a grant by PPHF, and sends them to the school to give to the child.
