Hastings Prince Edward Public Health provides vision screening in schools for Senior Kindergarten (SK) students. The screening checks for signs of vision problems, so issues can be addressed in a timely manner.

The Screening Process

Vision Screening at Elementary Schools

The screening consists of three short and simple tests to find out if a child might have vision problems. Children who already have glasses are screened while they are wearing their glasses. A letter summarizing the results of the vision screening is sent home with the child to inform parents or guardians of any vision-related concerns.

Please note that this program does not replace the importance of regularly scheduled visits to an Optometrist.

School Requirements for Screening

To provide the best experience for students, Public Health staff require dedicated space during vision screening. To prepare, please review the Required School Screening Practice Guidelines.

For detailed information about school screenings, consent, and where to direct parents for information, please review our Frequently Asked Questions and Information for School Staff document.

Other Important Information

An eye exam with an Optometrist is free of charge to those with a valid OHIP card, once every 12 months, up to the age of 19. To find a local Optometrist, visit the Ontario Association of Optometrists website www.optom.on.ca or call their toll-free number at 1-800-540-3837.