Governor DeWine Launches OhioSEE Initiative to Enhance Child Vision

Ohio’s Governor Mike DeWine has officially launched the OhioSEE initiative, aimed at improving vision care for children across the state. During a recent visit to Robinwood Lane Elementary School in Boardman, DeWine emphasized the importance of clear vision in education, stating, “OhioSEE is one of the most important things we are doing for the future of our kids.” This initiative seeks to ensure that children in need of vision care receive immediate assistance directly in their schools.

The OhioSEE program is currently implemented in over 90 school districts, reaching children in 15 high-priority counties. In Boardman alone, more than 130 students from kindergarten to third grade are already benefiting from these comprehensive vision services. DeWine highlighted that providing these services within schools removes barriers and facilitates timely access to necessary care.

Superintendent Chris Neifer expressed appreciation for the pilot program’s impact on local students. “We know that our students can only do their best if they are able to clearly see what they’re reading or what their teacher is sharing on the board,” Neifer stated. He noted that the initiative makes a significant difference by supplying students with the glasses they need.

The OhioSEE initiative offers two service models to accommodate different school district needs. The first is a mobile vision van that visits schools on a set schedule, providing on-site vision exams and dispensing glasses directly to students. Alternatively, the “roll-on, roll-off” model allows a team to quickly set up an exam area within school facilities, such as classrooms or libraries, where eye exams can be conducted.

Dr. Sergul Erzurum, pediatric ophthalmologist and President of Sight for All United, emphasized the initiative’s broader vision for children throughout Ohio. “We are proud that our decade of work has contributed to this broader vision, and OhioSEE will now help students throughout Ohio,” Erzurum stated, highlighting the importance of removing barriers to access and implementing effective systems for vision care.

In addition to the school visit, Governor DeWine toured Classic Optical Laboratories in the Youngstown area. This laboratory produces over 1.5 million eyeglasses annually and partners with OhioSEE vendors such as Vision to Learn and Western Ohio Health Partners to provide eyeglasses for children’s vision programs. “Our optical lab is passionate about serving our community, and we are committed to using our expertise in manufacturing to bring affordable vision solutions to children across Ohio,” said Morgan Hartzell, President of Classic Optical.

School districts interested in joining the OhioSEE initiative can obtain further information by completing a form on the Ohio Department of Health’s website. Upon submission, schools will receive a program packet, which includes the official enrollment link. The pilot project currently spans several counties, including Allen, Butler, and Clark, and aims to create a brighter future for Ohio’s students by enhancing access to essential vision care.