Vongsachang H, Callan J, Kretz AM, Wahl M, Mukherjee MR, Neitzel A, Friedman DS, Collins ME. Teacher and school staff perspectives on their role in school-based vision programs.
Can J Ophthalmol 2022;
57:381-387. [PMID:
34283966 DOI:
10.1016/j.jcjo.2021.06.011]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2021] [Revised: 05/27/2021] [Accepted: 06/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
School-based vision programs (SBVPs) are one approach to increase access to vision care by providing vision screenings, eye examinations, and eyeglasses directly in schools. Few studies report on the perspectives of teachers and staff, who are important stakeholders, on SBVPs. We examined teacher and staff perspectives on their involvement in SBVPs.
DESIGN
Qualitative study using focus groups.
PARTICIPANTS
Teachers and staff at Baltimore and Chicago public schools served by SBVPs between 2016 and 2018.
METHODS
We conducted 21 semistructured focus groups with 117 teachers and staff in 10 Baltimore and 11 Chicago public preK-12 schools that participated in SBVPs. Sessions were recorded, transcribed, and coded using inductive thematic analysis.
RESULTS
Participants identified 2 main themes regarding teacher and staff involvement in SBVPs: (i) program outreach, including using multiple communication modalities to engage parents, explaining program details to families, and helping with program consent form return and (ii) promoting vision health, including identifying vision problems in the classroom, encouraging eyeglasses wear, and supporting eyeglasses maintenance. Participants also discussed limitations in capacity to partake in these activities.
CONCLUSION
Teachers interact with parents and students throughout the SBVP process, undertaking important roles in outreach and health promotion to ensure uptake of SBVP services. SBVPs and other school-based health programs should explore strategies to support teachers in the roles they fill to optimize program impact.
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