Wisconsin
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Summary of the Wisconsin State Guidelines
1. Required Screenings
In the state of Wisconsin, vision screening programs are recommended for children starting at age three. Screenings are required as part of a special education assessment and for students being evaluated for grade retention.
Screenings are also recommended for:
- Students entering a new school district without prior vision screening documentation
- Referrals from teachers, parents, or guardians based on suspected impairments
2. Screening Referral Criteria (Criteria for Passing Vision Test)
Students who do not meet age-appropriate visual acuity standards are referred for further examination.
Common Visual Standards:
- Lea Symbol® chart: For younger children
- HOTV chart: For children ages 3–5
- Snellen chart: For older students (note: does not meet all international guidelines)
Failing a screening means sufficient deviation in vision has been identified, requiring further evaluation by an eye care specialist.
3. Children Who Should Bypass Screening
- Children with a documented history of vision problems
- Children under active care by an eye specialist
- Children with prescribed glasses or contacts—screening may be omitted unless otherwise indicated
4. Required Tools OR Important Changes to Tools Used/Discontinued
Vision Screening Tools:
- Lea Symbol® chart: Ideal for preliterate children using recognizable symbols (house, apple, square, circle)
- HOTV chart: Letters that can be matched or identified verbally
- Snellen chart: Standard tool for older children
- Near Vision Screeners: Small charts for close-range acuity testing
- Photoscreening: Camera-based method for detecting refractive errors, strabismus, and other ocular concerns
Tool Standards and Maintenance:
- Optotypes: Must follow established design guidelines (equal legibility, geometric size progression, proper spacing)
- Training and upkeep: Accurate results depend on calibrated tools and trained personnel