Vision, Hearing, Spinal Screening Certification and Re-Certification

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In compliance with the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36, all children will be screened for vision and hearing. It is a requirement for all school-aged children from 4 years old, students in kindergarten, first, third, fifth, seventh, and any other first time entrants (4 years through 12th grade) to have their vision, and hearing screened. Certified screeners conduct the screening.

To obtain your vision and hearing screening certification, you must attend and pass the Department of State Health Services certification training. The certification is valid for five years. The requirement for renewing the certification is to attend and pass another certification (re-certification) training.

Vision and Hearing: In compliance with the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36, all children will be screened for vision and hearing. It is a requirement for all school-aged children enrolled for the first time in any public, private, parochial, or denominational school or in a Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) licensed child care center and licensed child care home in Texas, or who meet certain grade criteria, must be screened or have a professional examination for possible vision and hearing problems. Certified screeners conduct the screening.

Spinal Screening: In compliance with the Texas Health and Safety Code, Chapter 36, the school-based spinal screening helps to identify adolescents with abnormal spinal curves and refer them for appropriate follow-up by their primary care physician. Screening can detect scoliosis at an early stage, when the curve is mild and may go unnoticed. Early detection is key to controlling spinal deformities.

The requirements for vision, hearing, and spinal screening for children enrolled apply each year for children enrolled in any licensed child care center and licensed child care home or school program.