Heideveld High School in Cape Town faces criticism for uninviting a former pupil who is now a wheelchair user to its matric ball dance. The school initially extended an invitation to Chelse Leigh Tiemie (17) who would have been a matric student this year, but later, it subsequently changed its stance.
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Chelse was left paralysed after being struck by a car. On 17 October 2020, Chelse and six of her friends were returning from Usave when a white VW CiTi Golf ran a red traffic light and collided with her, causing her to land on her head.
This tragic incident resulted in her sustaining permanent disabilities, forcing her to discontinue her education.
Nearly three years after the accident that left Chelse disabled, her father, Alrich Willis, expressed their initial joy when she was invited to attend a matric ball with her friends as a thoughtful gesture by the school, given her previous enrollment there.
But their happiness turned to disappointment when Chelse’s hopes were dashed after they had made considerable preparations for the event, reports IOL.
Willis said, ‘We prepared, we got her a few dresses to wear, and someone offered to do her hair and her make-up, as well as transport her for this big event. They notified me on Friday that they’ve exceeded their limit for the venue.’
‘How do you do that to people who have been through so much with their child?’ Willis questioned.
The devastated dad took to Facebook to share his outrage regarding the school’s actions.
The school hosted its extravagant matric ball at the Cape Town Convention Centre on Tuesday night.
As per Millicent Merton, the Western Cape Education Department’s spokesperson, Chelse’s parents failed to confirm their attendance within the specified timeframe.
Merton stated, ‘The school included the former learner in various school activities. All guests had to respond to the invitation that was sent to them. Regrettably, the father responded late to the invitation.
Willis asserts that he indeed acknowledged the invitation but never received any follow-up communication from the school: ‘I was told that the school would get in touch with further details.
‘I will not mention names, but I hope you will never do this to another child or family again. I hope you understand my disgust and disappointment,’ expressed Willis.
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Picture: Alrich Willis / Facebook