Vision and Hearing Screenings

Hearing screening must be provided annually for preschool children 3-years-old or older in any public or private educational program or licensed child care facility, and for all school age children in grades kindergarten, first, second and third; who are in a special education class; have been referred by a teacher; or are transfer students. These screening services shall be provided in all public, private, and parochial schools. In lieu of the screening services required, a completed and signed report form, indicating the child had an ear examination by a physician and an audiological evaluation completed by an audiologist within the previous 12 months, is acceptable.

Vision screening must be provided annually for preschool children 3-years-old or older in any public or private educational program or licensed child care facility, and for school age children in grades kindergarten, second and eighth; who are in special education class; have been referred by a teacher; or are transfer students. Such screening services shall be provided in all public, private and parochial schools. In lieu of the screening services required, a completed and signed report form, indicating that an eye examination by a doctor specializing in diseases of the eye or a licensed optometrist has been administered within the previous 12 months, is acceptable.

The parent or legal guardian of a student may object to hearing or vision screening tests for their children on religious grounds. If a religious objection is made, a written and signed statement from the parent or legal guardian detailing such objections must be presented to the local school authority.

Screening instruments, test procedures and referral criteria are defined in the Illinois Administrative Code (see LAWS & RULES in the right-hand column). Children whose test results meet referral criteria are referred to an eye doctor or family physician for further evaluation.