Students are seeing life a little clearer thanks to KidsVision for Life Central Texas, an organization that provides free vision exams and glasses at schools across Round Rock ISD. The KidsVision mobile clinic has visited five elementary schools this year so and plans to visit another seven elementary schools in the next two months.
The mobile clinic is a one-stop shop for students to get the vision assistance they need. For example, KidsVision visited Robertson Elementary School on October 27 and served 34 students in its mobile clinic. Of those 34 students, 19 received glasses the same day, 15 will receive specialized glasses in one month and 19 students received prescription lenses for the first time.
“Our district is fortunate to have community partners like KidsVision that not only provide essential services, but also focus on accessibility for our families,” Executive Director of State and Federal Programs Laura Segars said. “By ensuring that all children have access to proper vision exams and glasses, their services directly impact student success.”
The clinic is outfitted with two exam areas for licensed optometrists and equipment to adjust glasses and cut lenses for each frame. Individuals with other vision issues, like a lazy eye, receive referrals to ophthalmologists for further exams.
Students are eligible to participate in the KidsVision program if they are eligible for free or reduced lunch or if their family does not have vision insurance. Students with Medicaid are also eligible for the service.
“Vision is an obvious need, but it’s often an overlooked one,” said Christin Alvarado, KidsVision for Life Central Texas program director.
