I initially felt optimistic about enrolling my child in lessons at French Hill. After sharing that I had a beginner rider and a little bit about my child, I was told they had the availability to enroll in group lessons and the next step was to schedule an evaluation at which time we would discuss goals and schedule preferences. I should note that my daughter has done very well in previous horseback lessons and trail rides.
When we arrived for the evaluation, instructor Chloe's intentions seemed to shift when she realized my child had a physical disability that causes her to walk differently although she still does so independently and is very capable. During the 20 mins that my daughter was given on the horse, Chloe asked only basic instruction which my child followed. We were then charged $110 for this brief session. After I made the payment, Chloe returned to her desk work without saying a word. When I inquired about next steps, I was rather callously told that our child wasn't ready for group lessons. When I asked for the reasoning, I was told that we could do private lessons. When I asked for more information on privates, Chloe said she would get back to me and had a "don't call us, we'll call you" tone. Chloe then emailed me to say they would not be able to offer private lessons to a beginner. I responded asking for further explanation which French Hill has not responded to.
One in four people will encounter some form of disability in their lifetime, whether as a condition they are born with, due to injury, age, or some other issue. This is the reality we all face. I hope that the instructors and owners of French Hill will come to understand the impact of their words and actions if this becomes their reality. Recognizing a person's abilities and potential (especially when it is a child) rather than focusing on perceived differences is so important as is fostering inclusion, dignity and respect for everyone regardless of how they navigate the world. read more
