Girl with Cerebral Palsy Faces School Year Without Aide
Just two days before the start of the school year, the family of Ofri Rafael, an 11-and-a-half-year-old girl from Nativ HaAsara, discovered that she would not have a dedicated aide. Ofri, who suffers from quadriplegic cerebral palsy, requires 100% care and constant supervision. Her family claims the Hof Ashkelon Regional Council, responsible for assigning aides, was aware of the need since early July but failed to secure one.
Adding to the distress, the family was initially informed there was no transportation for Ofri either. A temporary transportation solution was found on the morning of the school year's start. Furthermore, a temporary aide, who took time off from her own job, has stepped in to assist Ofri for a few days, but her father, Boaz Rafael, stated this arrangement is unsustainable.
Boaz Rafael expressed frustration, noting that the council has been aware of the situation since July 1st and that similar issues have occurred in previous years, requiring the family to scramble for solutions. He suggested that Ofri's enrollment in a school in Ashkelon, rather than within the Hof Ashkelon Council's jurisdiction, might be a factor in the delayed assistance, as the council may prioritize students within its own area.
Ofri, who is also a participant in "Beit HaGalgalim," an organization for youth with physical disabilities, was reportedly devastated by the prospect of not attending school. Her father emphasized that school is her primary social outlet and that the lack of an aide impacts her deeply, causing her to question why she is treated differently.
The family is also facing financial and logistical strain, with Ofri's mother unable to return to her work as a veterinarian clinic manager due to the uncertainty. Boaz Rafael had to take time off work to pick Ofri up from school due to the transportation issue.
The Hof Ashkelon Regional Council responded that they are aware of the case and are working diligently to find a suitable aide, acknowledging the unique requirements of the role. They stated that despite significant efforts and outreach to candidates, they have not yet found a suitable personal education support for the child. The council affirmed its commitment to finding a solution to allow Ofri to return to her full school routine as soon as possible, citing privacy concerns for not disclosing further details.
