Eyeglass program
PCC manages two work-based education programs within Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (one in the Medium security facility and another in the Minimum security facility). The Eyeglass program is in the Minimum security facility and is made up of three main components: eyeglass recycling, industry certification, and hands-on finishing lab experience.
Eyeglass recycling
The eyeglass recycling program was formed over 15 years ago in partnership with the Oregon Lions Sight and Hearing Foundation as a way for Adults In Custody (AIC) to give back to the community.
Glasses donated by the Oregon Lions Foundation are dispensed by AIC to people all over the world who may not be able to afford glasses, or may not have the ability to obtain them. To this day, Eyeglass students and workers recycle over 6000 pairs of glasses a month for the Oregon Lions.
Industry certification
As the eyeglass recycling program grew, PCC took an interest and decided to partner with the Department of Corrections (DOC), creating an educational and vocational program at Coffee Creek. The program was the first of its kind in Oregon.
First year students study curriculum based on the American Board of Opticianry certification. Coursework includes study in the following:
- Lensometry
- Tools and adjustments
- Ophthalmic frames
- Lens materials and coatings
- Eye anatomy and medical terminology
- Mathematics
- Basic optical principles
- Eye diseases
- Lens form and analysis
- Multi-focal lenses
- Progressive addition lenses (PALS)
Students also study professional issues, basic science, clinical principles, and procedures in ophthalmic dispensing in preparation for the Certified Paraoptometric Exam. Students take the exam as a cohort in the spring of each year.
Throughout the course of study there are also workshops to educate the students on soft skills, interpersonal skills, and team-building to help them to succeed in the workplace.
Finishing lab
Along with the educational course, the program has an optical finishing lab that provides hands-on experience in the fabrication and dispensing of eyeglasses. This lab, consisting of four lens edgers and related equipment, fabricates and dispenses over 1300 eyeglasses a year to inmates from all Oregon state prisons, and varying numbers of new glasses for the Oregon Lions Foundation.
The practice students receive on the lab allows them to apply classroom theory, as well as giving them valuable experience in preparation for optical employment after parole.