My connection with Highline Vision Center, and Highline Center for Vision and Learning, goes way back to the late 1980's when I was teaching first and second grade.  I went to the center to see what kind of testing and services were provided for children.  I knew from my background in Special Education that vision was so important to children's learning.  They put me through the testing that they provided for children and then showed me some of the activities they performed.  I have stayed connected to Highline Vision throughout the rest of my career with Cherry Creek School District and after my retirement in July 1999. 

After I retired as an Administrator, Highline Vision Center worked with me in setting up a Vision/Reading Program at an Elementary School.  We wrote a grant and received $80,000.  The program used computers and software to improve children's vision and reading skills.  Highline oversaw the program and gave us input and followed the student's progress.  The program ran for 2 years until the space we used was needed by the school.  We felt the program was very beneficial to the children. 

I continue to be involved with Vision by serving on the Vision and Learning Forum, which is a non-profit organization.  The Forum encourages a multi-disciplinary approach to solving learning problems and to heighten public awareness concerning the relationship between vision and learning.  We have developed a Power Point presentation for Parents and Teachers and are now in the process of presenting at schools to increase this awareness.

Highline Center for Vision and Learning has screened many children at schools.  I have connected them to Southeast Christian School and they have screened the children K-8 for the last two years.

My own grandson has benefited from Vision Therapy when he was in second grade.  He is now in fourth grade and is scoring very high in reading and math.  He also has played goalie for his soccer team and has amazing vision skills for catching the ball.  I have enjoyed my connection with Highline Vision and I know that our relationship will continue for many more years.  -Shirly Osorno