CAUSES

The Positive Impact of Glasses in Classes Programs for JCPS Elementary School Children

Education is essential for a better future, but for children with uncorrected vision problems, learning becomes a challenge. Struggling to see the board, read books, or follow lessons can harm their academic performance, confidence, and well-being. Many of these children are unfairly labeled as inattentive or struggling learners. Unfortunately, low-income families often lack access to vision care due to financial or logistical barriers.

In early 2023, we learned from Dr. Eva Stone, the medical director at JCPS, that nearly 9,000 students had failed vision screenings, with most lacking access to corrective glasses. To address this need, we partnered with Dr. Grant Rubesh from Vision Works to launch the Glasses in Classes program, providing free or low-cost prescription glasses to students. Beyond improving vision, this initiative enhances academic achievement, boosts confidence, and fosters better classroom behavior, paving the way for lifelong success. We served close to 1000 students in the last year and our goal is to continue to serve.

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Enhancing Academic Performance

Vision plays a vital role in learning, with about 80% of school learning being visual. Without clear eyesight, students struggle to read, follow instructions, and engage with digital tools, often falling behind their peers. Research shows that providing glasses significantly improves reading scores and academic performance. By removing this barrier, the program empowers students to excel in school.

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Boosting Confidence and Engagement

A child’s confidence is closely tied to their success in school. Vision issues can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and withdrawal from class activities, eroding self-esteem over time. Glasses can transform a child’s experience, enabling them to see clearly and engage confidently with teachers and peers. Students who receive glasses often feel more included and capable, encouraging greater participation and fostering a love for learning. This boost in confidence creates a positive cycle of increased engagement and academic success.

‍

The Positive Impact of Glasses in Classes Programs for JCPS Elementary School Children

Education is essential for a better future, but for children with uncorrected vision problems, learning becomes a challenge. Struggling to see the board, read books, or follow lessons can harm their academic performance, confidence, and well-being. Many of these children are unfairly labeled as inattentive or struggling learners. Unfortunately, low-income families often lack access to vision care due to financial or logistical barriers.

In early 2023, we learned from Dr. Eva Stone, the medical director at JCPS, that nearly 9,000 students had failed vision screenings, with most lacking access to corrective glasses. To address this need, we partnered with Dr. Grant Rubesh from Vision Works to launch the Glasses in Classes program, providing free or low-cost prescription glasses to students. Beyond improving vision, this initiative enhances academic achievement, boosts confidence, and fosters better classroom behavior, paving the way for lifelong success. We served close to 1000 students in the last year and our goal is to continue to serve.

‍

Enhancing Academic Performance

Vision plays a vital role in learning, with about 80% of school learning being visual. Without clear eyesight, students struggle to read, follow instructions, and engage with digital tools, often falling behind their peers. Research shows that providing glasses significantly improves reading scores and academic performance. By removing this barrier, the program empowers students to excel in school.

‍

Boosting Confidence and Engagement

A child’s confidence is closely tied to their success in school. Vision issues can lead to frustration, embarrassment, and withdrawal from class activities, eroding self-esteem over time. Glasses can transform a child’s experience, enabling them to see clearly and engage confidently with teachers and peers. Students who receive glasses often feel more included and capable, encouraging greater participation and fostering a love for learning. This boost in confidence creates a positive cycle of increased engagement and academic success.