New program at JCPS gives students with vision issues free glasses

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A new program is giving students the gift of vision at Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS).

Jennifer Richmond's daughter Naomi has been wearing glasses since she was 4 years old. Naomi's most recent pair of glasses broke and her family was waiting for insurance to cover the cost of a new pair.

"This is perfect timing and so convenient because I didn't have to miss work, I didn't have to figure out a ride, she didn't have to miss any school," Richmond said. "I feel like it was a win-win."

After taking the vision test on Monday, Naomi had a new pair of glasses the next day.

On Tuesday, dozens of students at McFerran Elementary School got vision screenings and received free eyeglasses. Students who failed an eye exam got to pick out their frames and the glasses will be delivered to them within a week.

According to a news release, around 9,000 students failed vision screening tests, but only 10% made a follow up visit to get eye wear.

Dr. Inder Singal, interim medical director for the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness, said the pilot program addresses an accessibility issue for children.

"If you don't have glasses in elementary school or middle school, you're just not going to perform," Singal said. "There's a social impact, you're labeled disruptive, you're not smart enough, not knowing that you can't really read as a child."

JCPS FREE GLASSES — Students at McFerran Elementary School received vision tests and free glasses on Nov. 14, 2023.

James, a third grader at McFerran Elementary School, was having trouble seeing before getting glasses.

"It made me sad because I was different than everybody else," James said. "These glasses mean a lot to me."

James' classmates, Araceli and Zariyah also struggled seeing in class. Araceli struggled to see the board while reading was difficult for Zariyah. With the glasses, they're able to see much better.

"Everybody looks blurry, but when I put them on everybody looks fine," Zariyah said.

The pilot program screened 300 students on Monday, finding about 50 students who needed glasses. Dr. Grant Rubesh with Vision Works said lab carpenters worked late into the night to cut lenses, which were ready for students on Tuesday.

"To help impact so many children, it's one of the best things that we can do for our whole community," Rubesh said.

Singal wants to expand the program to all elementary schools, and then move to middle schools.

"Our goal is screen the children, find the prescription, try to get them glasses within a day or two so that they can enjoy reading, writing and learn," Singal said.