Vision and Hearing Screening

Vision and Hearing

Public Act 95-0671 requires that children enrolling in kindergarten and any student enrolling for the first time in a public, private, or parochial school in Illinois regardless of grade shall have an eye examination conducted by an optometrist or ophthalmologist by October 15th of the school year. The school may hold a child's report card if the child fails to present proof of exam by October 15. Parents or legal guardians who object to eye exams on religious grounds may complete an Eye Examination Waiver Form (found under "Health Requirements & Forms" tab.

Vision screening is mandatory for Early Childhood, second, and eighth grade students, and is recommended for grades four and six. At Union Ridge School, the school nurse screens students in the mandatory grades, and as time allows, screens students in all of the other grades as well. All students new to Union Ridge and all students receiving special education services are screened annually regardless of grade.

Vision screening is not a substitute for a complete vision evaluation by an eye doctor. Your child is not required to undergo vision screening if an optometrist or ophthalmologist has completed and signed a report form indicating that an examination has been administered within the previous 12 months.

Hearing screening is done on all students up to and including third grade. All students new to Union Ridge and students receiving special education services are screened annually regardless of grade.

You will be contacted if your child meets referral criteria. If you have any concerns about your child’s vision or hearing, please contact the school nurse during regular school hours.