CDE Field Trips - 12/4/24: Regional Low Vision Evaluation Clinics

For more than 25 years, CDE has helped students with low vision access the magnification tools they need to learn and accomplish everyday tasks. 

About 900 Colorado school-age children have low vision, which can cause reduced access to visual information, visual fatigue, challenges with glare, or specific lighting and contrast needs. CDE’s Office of Special Education coordinates regional Low Vision Evaluation Clinics to support eligible students who have Individualized Education Programs.

The clinics began in 1998 after teachers from Colorado's Western Slope asked CDE for more support to help students with low vision. At the time, there were no low-vision optometrists in the region and only a few in the state's urban areas.

These clinics provide personalized 90-minute evaluations to identify the best tools for each student—such as magnification apps, handheld magnifiers, video magnifiers, or telescopes.

At a recent clinic in Fort Collins, nine students were evaluated over two days. Each evaluation includes the student, an adult family member, and a teacher of students with visual impairment. An optometrist and low vision therapist work together to assesses the student's needs for low vision strategies and tools. If a device is prescribed and purchased, the teacher will help the student learn to use the device. 

This school year, clinics have also been held in Grand Junction and Colorado Springs. The final clinic for 2024-25 will be in Denver on Feb. 19-21.

For more information about the clinics, please contact Tanni Anthony at Anthony_t@cde.state.co.us or Roberta Curtis at curtis_r@cde.state.co.us.