The Berrien County Health Department announced on March 16 that it will offer school-required hearing and vision screening clinics for kindergartners through ninth-graders during spring break, with appointments available on March 30 and 31.
These screenings are mandated by Michigan state law for children entering certain grades in both public and private schools. The clinics are free of charge and open to all residents of Berrien County.
Melisa Jordan, the department’s hearing and vision coordinator, said, “Spring break is a great time for parents and caregivers to schedule hearing and vision screenings for their children, especially for homeschool and virtual learners who do not have access to them through a school.” Jordan added, “These screenings help detect potential challenges early on so children start school ready to learn. These screenings are quick, easy and can make a big difference in a child’s educational success.”
Appointments can be scheduled at BCHD’s Benton Harbor office on March 30 or at the Niles office on March 31. Screening times run from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Parents can book an appointment online or by calling Melisa Jordan at the provided number.
The hearing screening takes about three minutes, requiring children to identify six sounds. If issues are found, referrals are made either to the family’s health care provider or the Berrien Springs Public Schools Hearing Center. Vision screenings last five to ten minutes with four shapes for identification; referrals for further eye exams are given if needed.
The department also plans to provide dental, hearing, and vision screenings during summer clinics as well as at its annual Back-to-School Bash in August. More information about these programs is available online.
