MADISON, Wis.—The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is partnering with Combat Blindness International and Vision To Learn to expand access to vision screenings, eye exams and prescription glasses for students, bringing essential care directly to school communities.

Through the new Bright Eyes Program, students who do not pass a vision screening will have the opportunity to receive an eye exam aboard a mobile Vision Van, with prescription glasses provided to students at no cost. Students who need specialized care will be connected with local health care providers.

The new partnership builds on MMSD’s existing efforts to make health care more accessible to students through school-based services. Through Celebrate Smiles, a partnership with Access Community Health Centers, students receive dental screenings, fluoride treatments, oral health education and restorative care through a mobile unit and school-based visits. Together, these programs reflect MMSD’s commitment to reducing barriers to preventive care by bringing essential health services directly into school communities.

“When students can’t see clearly, it can affect their ability to participate in classroom activities, engage with their teachers and fully access learning,” said Sarah Breon, MMSD director of health services. “By bringing vision care directly to our schools, we can help remove barriers for students and families and ensure that students who need follow-up care have a clearer path to getting it.”

The partnership builds on more than a decade of local work. Since 2014, MMSD and Combat Blindness International have screened more than 30,000 students and identified thousands who needed follow-up care. However, only about 30% of students referred for additional care received the recommended services. Among students who complete follow-up exams, approximately 80% need prescription glasses.

The mobile Vision Van program will expand MMSD’s existing vision screening efforts. The district currently screens students in 4K, kindergarten, first, third and fifth grades. Under a phased implementation model, the long-term goal is to provide screening access to all MMSD students, with approximately half of students screened each year.

The program is scheduled to begin providing mobile vision services at two schools this week, with additional schools to follow throughout the school year. 

For more information about MMSD Health Services and student wellness resources, visit the district’s website.

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About the Madison Metropolitan School District

The Madison Metropolitan School District (MMSD) is the second-largest school district in Wisconsin, serving more than 25,000 students across 52 schools. The district’s vision is that MMSD will be a learning community where all students are valued, challenged, supported and inspired to reach their dreams. With more than 7,000 teachers and staff, MMSD is committed to ensuring the district’s goals and core values are held at the center of its efforts, so students can learn, belong and thrive. For more information, visit mmsd.org.