University of Kentucky mobile eye clinic expands to nine Fayette County schools; student artists featured at Keeneland

At its May 27 meeting, the Fayette County Board of Education highlighted two community partnerships that put students at the center of health and arts outreach.

The University of Kentucky Department of Ophthalmology presented results from a three-year partnership in which a multispecialty pediatric mobile clinic provides on-site full eye exams and free glasses. "By providing on-site screenings and free glasses, we ensure our students have the visual tools necessary to succeed," Miranda Scully said as she introduced clinic staff.

Lily Hopkins, the clinic's registered nurse, and Mary (a medical assistant) described growth from five schools in the first year (2023) to nine schools on the 2026–27 rotation. Hopkins said the program has delivered 202 free eye exams to date and that provider availability — ophthalmologists donate limited hours — constrains capacity to approximately seven students per clinic day in some locations. The clinic team described a protocol to refer students needing advanced testing back to a home clinic and to use school social workers to coordinate transportation when needed.

Separately, the board spotlighted student art selected for a Stone Street Farms / Keeneland exhibition. Rachel Lash, an FCPS fine arts instructional specialist, presented student artist Elen Thomas and teacher Emily Huff from Lafayette High School; Elen described winning an art-competition sale that included dressing in the winner''s circle and presenting awards at Keeneland. "This was more than an art contest. It was an unforgettable opportunity to see how creativity can open doors," Lash said.

Board members commended both initiatives for expanding access and community connections. Trustees asked clinic staff about repeat patients and follow-up care; staff said they track follow-ups and try to see returning students for updates and prescription changes as provider availability allows.