Chattooga County Schools is embarking on a transformative new year with the launch of two significant initiatives aimed at enhancing student literacy and overall academic success: a comprehensive vision care program and a mobile literacy bookmobile.

The “Vision for Literacy” initiative will directly address potential barriers to learning by providing free vision screenings, eye exams, and eyeglasses to all students in 1st, 3rd, 5th, and 8th grades. These essential services will be delivered conveniently on campus, removing common obstacles to access.

“We know poor vision can impact a child’s ability to engage with their lessons and perform in the classroom,” according to a release from the school system. “That’s why we’re taking this important step – because we believe every student deserves the best chance to succeed.”

This vital program is made possible through a partnership with the Vision to Learn Program, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping students see clearly to succeed in school and in life. Since its inception in 2012, Vision to Learn has served over 2 million children nationwide, with many receiving glasses for the first time. Funding for this initiative stems from a Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) grant championed by Senator Jon Ossoff, with a specific focus on supporting rural communities in Georgia. The district also acknowledges the crucial partnership and ongoing support from Kim Conley and the Department of Education in expanding access to vision care across the state.

Complementing the focus on visual health, the district is also excited to introduce the “Words on Wheels” Mobile Literacy Bookmobile. This traveling bookstore and free library, packed with books for all ages, will bring the joy of reading directly into the community. Designed to serve as another avenue for supporting literacy and fostering a lifelong love of learning, the bookmobile will make appearances throughout the county.

The bookmobile is a federally funded project, supported in part by generous donations from the Tillotson-Menlo Charitable Foundation. Its unique design is a testament to local talent, with the vibrant artwork created by Atteka Abdou, an art teacher at Leroy Massey. The interior was collaboratively crafted by Christie Dooley, ELA specialist; Bengi Price, CHS construction teacher, and his students; and Carol Ann Cash, a CHS Class of 2025 graduate.

“Together, we can empower our students, provide them with the tools they need, and spark a lifelong love of learning,” the district added, encouraging the community to watch for further updates.

Students in the targeted grades (1st, 3rd, 5th, and 8th) will receive more specific details from their respective schools soon regarding the vision screenings and exam schedules.