A. Pursuant to R.I. Gen Laws §§ 16-21-14 and 16-21-14.1, vision screening is required for all students.

1. Every student must be given a vision screening upon entry to school and in the first (1st), second (2nd), third (3rd), fourth (4th), fifth (5th), seventh (7th) and ninth (9th) grades. a. If evidence is presented to the school physician or certified school nurse-teacher that the same series of vision tests, as required in this Part, has been completed within the preceding twelve (12) months by the student's ophthalmologist, optometrist, or primary care provider, the student may be exempt from this screening requirement for that school year. b. Periodic reporting of vision screening results to RIDE and/or RIDOH may be required.

(a) Upon entering kindergarten or within thirty (30) days of the start of the school year, the parent or guardian of each child shall present to school health personnel certification that the child, within the previous twelve (12) months has passed a vision screening conducted by a health care professional licensed by the department of health or has obtained a comprehensive eye examination performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist. For children who fail to pass the vision screening and for children diagnosed with neurodevelopmental delay, proof of a comprehensive eye examination performed by a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist indicating any pertinent diagnosis, treatment, prognosis, recommendation and evidence of follow-up treatment, if necessary, shall be provided.