Health Screenings

The goal of health screening within a school setting is to detect possible health problems. Early identification and correction of defects will enable students to maximize their educational opportunities during the school year. A good screening program is well organized, runs smoothly and rapidly; is acceptable to students, teachers, and parents; utilizes personnel efficiently; has neither too many over referrals nor too many under referrals; and is not diagnostic.

Vision and Hearing
State law requires that all children enrolled in any public, private, parochial or denominational licensed childcare facility or school in Texas for the first time, or who meet certain grade criteria (as specified below) must be screened or have a professional examination for possible vision and hearing problems. Vision and hearing screening is also required for all special education candidates.

SOURCE: Special Senses and Communication Disorders Act (Article 4419g, V.T.C.S.) passed by the 68th Texas Legislature in 1983; amended in 1985 by HB 2004 in the 69th Texas Legislative Session.

Screening Schedule
A student is exempt from the screening requirements if the tests conflict with the teachings and practices of a recognized church or religious denomination of which the student is an believer or a member. The student or minor student's parent, managing conservator, or guardian shall submit to the principal on or before the day of admission an affidavit stating the objections to screening. Each school nurse will submit an annual report on the screening results to the Director of Health Service. These reports are due in May of each school year and are then reported to the Texas Department of Health.

View the requirements for vision, hearing and spinal screening for children here.