Useless... 'I before E except after C', oh, as in weight and height.

The problem is not with the "rule" but that it is meant to apply only when the "ie" or "ei" combination represents the "ee" sound. It's not meant to be applied when other vowel sounds are represented. Within the "ee" sound context, it's accurate most of the time, with the occasional weird exception.

If you were taught that it should apply in all cases, find your teacher and give him or her a vigorous dope slap.