Student eyesight screening program launches in Ohio schools

10/28/2025

Children’s eyesight program estimated to reach 14,000 students per year

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Ohio Department of Health (ODH) Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA, have announced the details of a new children's eyesight program, OhioSEE.

In 2024, Governor DeWine formed the Children's Vision Strike Force to find a solution to the gap in Ohio students' vision care. The working group’s recommendations are being implemented through OhioSEE, reaching K-3 students in 15 high-priority counties. ODH estimates the program will serve up to 14,000 children per year once it is fully implemented.

The working group found that only about one-fourth (26%) of Ohio students who need additional vision care actually receive it. Studies have shown that 80% of a child’s learning comes through their sense of sight, and that reading scores of children who got glasses increased significantly compared to those students who received glasses later.

OhioSEE will fund mobile vision vans and temporary in-school vision clinics to deliver comprehensive eye exams directly in participating schools, removing common barriers such as transportation, cost, and limited provider availability. Schools can choose which delivery model (or both) will work for them.

Funding for OhioSEE is a partnership with the Ohio General Assembly through the 2026-2027 state operating budget. OhioSEE services are expected to begin early next year.

Learn more about the OhioSEE Program and how schools in the eligible counties can participate.