Students Treated To Free Eye Exams At West Norriton Elementary School

WEST NORRITON TWP —Wearing large-black framed glasses, a seven-year-old named Shajeeah pointed to shapes in a book, and answered questions about depth perception early Thursday morning.

“Have you ever worn glasses like this?” Olivia Burger, a fourth-year optometry student at Salus University questioned, during an eye examination in a mobile vision testing vehicle called the “Big Red Bus” parked outside the Marshall Street Elementary School.

“Yes. I did this at the doctor’s office,” Shajeeah responded.

“You are a rock star!” Burger exclaimed, as she continued on with an examination.

The first-grader was the first in line for a free eye examination in the “Looking Out For Kids,” school vision program sponsored by Salus University, Elkins Park, and the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections.

For the first time, Salus University teamed up with the State Department of Corrections to provide an eye examination and new pair of glasses. Fifteen students had their eyes examined and were treated to glasses.

The oval-framed glasses were made by 30 female inmates working at the state Correctional Institute Cambridge Springs Optical Lab, Crawford County.

“Vocational training and work experience offered by Correctional Industries helps prepare incarcerated individuals for successful reentry upon their release,” Khelleh Konteh, correctional industries director, said.

“Our employees take a great deal of pride in their work and are honored to know that the glasses they make will benefit young people in need.”

Salus University has been providing comprehensive vision care to underserved communities since 2007.

“This is truly a monumental day, not only for Salus University but for the state and the schools,”
Dr. Michael H. Mittelman, Salus University president, said in the school lobby.

Mittelman said that the university is thrilled to partner with the Pennsylvania Department of Corrections to provide high-quality, cost-effective glasses for students.

Salus University began the student eyecare program in 2007 in the Philadelphia School District and has since expanded to Norristown, Abington, and Cheltenham school districts. Salus also provides testing and eyeglasses to area shelters.