BPES partners with Lions Club to conduct student vision screenings

​​For the second consecutive year, ​​the Broadalbin-Perth Lions Club provided a day of vision screening for 85 students in pre-K through first grade at Broadalbin-Perth Elementary School, coordinating efforts with the Northeastern Association of the Blind at Albany (NABA).

Tzigane Lajeunesse, LPN, Lions' KidSight Coordinator at NABA, said she was thrilled at the number of students participating and the continued support of the school and Broadalbin-Perth Lions. "We are so pleased that the school and the Lions are working with us again to ensure that these youngsters have the opportunity to have their vision screened so early in their lives."
 
KidSight is NABA’s vision screening program designed specifically for children ages 18 months to five years. A specialized camera is used to detect potential vision impairments in the individuals screened. Each year, an average of twelve percent of the children screened for vision impairments are “flagged” as having a potential vision problem. These children are then referred to a doctor for a follow-up visit and treatment if necessary. NABA collects data on the outcomes of those who were recommended for a follow-up visit and works with the children’s families to help ensure the children are seen by a doctor.

"Once again, this well-coordinated event helps us identify those students who may be in need of glasses or some other form of vision assistance which will ultimately help them in school," said BPES nurse Christine Yatzor.

"We are grateful for this partnership with the Lions and that they can bring this program to our students," said Lori Nellis, who oversees Broadalbin-Perth’s nursing program. She explained that when students can see clearly, their success in school improves tremendously.