Case
Child may need glasses

I have worked one-on-one with a student for over a year. In my time working with them, he has had several vision/hearing tests done and has failed the vision screening every time. I have sent messages to the family several times and a paper from the people who do the vision/hearing screening saying that he may need to see the doctor about his vision. Unfortunately, they refuse to have their child checked to see if they may need glasses and I am afraid that it could be a major factor into why they have fallen behind so much. What should I do?

Posted on: 02/24/23 | Views: 95
Solution #1
In this case, I would ask the parents and students for a parent-teacher conference. I recommend having the vision specialist present during the meeting to answer any questions. Sometimes parents may feel the school's assessment and results are incorrect as they do not have much of an issue at home. Exposing them to screening aspects may help them see the child needs glasses. I recommend coordinating with any teachers the student has to arrange for them to sit in the front row. Even if the parents continue to refuse, there is a better chance for student success by moving them closer to the teaching area.
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Solution #2
I would set up a parent teacher conference. Possibly with the vision specialist that did the test at the school. I would reassure the parent that you are just trying to help and make a suggestion in the best interest of their child. If parents still refuse, move the child to the front of the room.
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Solution #3
I would try and present this problem to the principle or district manager. As this can also be considered neglect or endangerment if the child vision continues to fade as it could lead to them walking straight into danger. I would also try and look up resources for the parent or guardian to seek aid for their child vision and need for glasses.
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Solution #4
I think a positive way to go about this would be setting up a parent teacher conference with the vision specialist present would be a great way, if the students parents agree to meet. This way they can observe their students vision struggles the classroom and performing tests. I also think that looking into financial programs that help with the costs of glasses, incase this is a par5t of the reason no action has been taken.

This is a good idea. This could also show that maybe the family cannot afford glasses.

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Solution #5
There may be a financial issue present. Unfortunately, children that have state health insurance do not have access to affordable visior care. The Centers of Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) cover basic health insurance and very basic dental care. Vision is not included, so in this case, I would come prepared for free or low cost vision alternatives. If you cannot find them, then the issue goes beyond your help. I would reach out to other administrators and teachers to see how they have handled issues like this in the past.
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Solution #6
I would ask the parents to meet for a conference. I would stay as positive as possible but bring up the concerns you have for the student tying it back to their performance in class. A student should succeed in class and if they need help with something out of their control you should inform the parents.
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Solution #7
I would certainly take this up with your higher ups, the principal or vice principal, and give them all of the information you have collected over this time and address your concerns. It may be an issue that actually needs to go further to a company named CPS, child protective services.
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Solution #8
A parent teacher conference is always a great start. I would suggest getting the administration invovled, as well as if you all have a guidance counselor or child services officer within your district, it would be good to have them help faciliate the conversation.
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