Parents Outraged After Disabled Son Allegedly Forced to Clean Cafeteria
A South Carolina school district states the activities were part of an 'employability class' designed to prepare students for life after graduation.
Parents of a disabled student are demanding answers after their son reported being made to clean the cafeteria at Lakewood High School in Sumter, South Carolina, while other students ate their lunch. Jeremiah and Felicia Sams stated that their son, Will, who is on the autism spectrum, was tasked with cleaning tables and floors alongside other students from the disability class.
Felicia Sams shared the incident on Facebook, expressing her shock and frustration. She stated that upon contacting the school's assistant principal, she was informed the activities were part of a program to teach students in the disabled class work skills. "He cleans at home!!!! He attends school to learn," she wrote. "Please, if you or anyone you know has a disabled child at LAKEWOOD HIGH SCHOOL please ask them."
Jeremiah Sams told local news outlet WIS that his initial reaction was disbelief, questioning how one group of children could be made to perform janitorial duties for others. The parents asserted that they had not enrolled Will in any employability classes, a claim that contradicts the school's explanation.
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The Sumter School District issued a statement to WIS, explaining that students in the "employability class" participate in learning experiences intended to prepare them for post-high school life. These activities, according to the district, include clearing cafeteria tables, running classroom fundraisers like popcorn and slushie sales, and engaging in crafts. The district also noted that these activities were discussed with parents and guardians during meetings and committed to reviewing the course to ensure it aligns with each student's goals.
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Following the parents' public outcry, Felicia Sams announced on Facebook that the program was reportedly being discontinued. "This is the first step in correcting a very old and ignored issue. Please keep sharing and commenting keep the momentum going. WE ARE THE CHANGE, it’s up to us!!!" she posted. Jeremiah Sams acknowledged the decision as a positive development but expressed a desire for the district to take greater accountability.
The Daily Mail has reached out to the Sams family and the school district for further comment.