Glasses to Classes: Free Eye Exams Coming to Wirt County Students Through Coplin Health Systems

Grant-funded program provides comprehensive eye care to students during the school day.

Parkersburg, W.Va (February 17, 2026) — Coplin Health Systems, in partnership with Optical Academy and Wirt County Schools, is hosting a two-day “Glasses to Classes” optical health event, offering free, comprehensive vision care to students during the school day. Funded by the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation and approved by the Wirt County Board of Education, the “Glasses to Classes” event brings licensed optical and health care professionals into the school to conduct vision screenings, complete eye exams, and provide prescription eyewear, when needed, at no cost to families. Students are automatically included, unless a parent or guardian chooses to opt out.

“Glasses to Classes” will take place for elementary and middle school students from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 24, 2026, at the Wirt County Primary Center, and for high school and absentees from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on March 25, 2026, at the Wirt County High School. Home-schooled students in the county may attend either day. 

Vision problems affect one in four school-age children, according to the American Optometric Association, yet many families often face challenges in accessing eye care, such as lack of transportation, scheduling conflicts, or limited access to providers. If left untreated, vision issues can significantly impact a child’s ability to learn and succeed academically. By delivering comprehensive on-site optical health services, the program ensures every student has an equal opportunity to see clearly and perform at their best in school.

“Vision is fundamental to learning,” said Darrin Nicols, MD, FAAFP, and Chief Medical Officer of Coplin Health Systems. “When children can’t see the board or read their assignments clearly, it affects every aspect of their education. This program removes the obstacles that prevent families from getting the eye care their children need. We’re proud to partner with Optical Academy and Wirt County Schools to make sure no student is left struggling because of untreated vision problems.”

The program provides a full spectrum of care in a single visit. Students will move through a structured process that includes vision screenings, comprehensive exams by licensed optometrists, and prescription eyewear fittings, where they may choose from hundreds of frame options. Their chosen eyewear will be dispensed either same day or delivered to the school within two weeks.

All students are automatically included in the program. Parents are encouraged to review the program materials sent home. Participation requires no action from parents unless they choose to opt out. This streamlined approach ensures maximum participation while respecting family choice. Those who prefer their child not participate can simply return the opt-out form provided.

The “Glasses to Classes” program reflects Coplin Health Systems’ ongoing commitment to removing barriers to healthcare access. As a federally qualified health center, Coplin has expanded services throughout Wirt, Jackson, Wood counties in West Virginia, and Meigs County, Ohio, through innovative programs that meet communities where they are.For more information, parents can contact Wirt Country Schools or Coplin Health Systems.