Heartland Christian Academy
Date: April 09, 2003 09:53PM
corboy,
Thanks so much for your advice. I am not planning to contact the media. In fact, most of my outrage began when there was a huge three day spread done in our city's newspaper about unregulated religious reform schools, in which Heartland was mentioned. We did speak to the author of the articles briefly, but we didn't have anything to offer that he had not already found out during his investigation. He had actually visited Heartland, and was given an "open" tour. We assume he may have met my cousins because he spoke with many students. The articles made it appear as if Heartland was one of the "better" ones, which just drives me insane. I know that my youngest cousin, a female (12), had to wear the "ugly dress" to school one day. I also recognize that being swatted with a wooden paddle at the age of 15 must be the most degrading experience. I remember hearing that my cousin would ask them for more and tell them to do it harder. I mean, how else is a young boy supposed to feel "tough" in a situation like that. I could go on for hours, really.
The most disturbing information I found out was from a former employee, and even then, they were hesitant to tell me the horror stories. It took me a while, on the phone, to even convince them that I was not a reporter.
I used to think that when they finally get out, that we will get to know everything, and then take action.
But I fear that they will leave there talking about how "good" Heartland is, because it is all they have right now. I know they are being broken down, and I am so scared for them.
Thanks for listening.
concerned