Niwot High School
BY TINA EDEN
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IB Program Reaches Out

International Baccalaureate students raised over $6,000 for Niwot High custodian Andy Barela who is battling colon and rectal cancer. Diagnosed in February, 2011, Barela is unable to work, and has used up all of his employee leave benefits, leaving the family under financial duress.

Photo by Tina Eden

Niwot High School Senior Kaitlin Soucie hands school custodian Andy Barela gift cards for his children. Barela is suffering from colon and rectal cancer. He and his family were chosen as the IB program’s adopted family. The students raised over $6,000 to help Barela’s family while he is unable to work.

Under the guidance of IB assistant Debbie Hauck, the students solicited donations from school families, faculty, and the student body. On Dec. 16, a car caravan of students, parents and staff traveled to Barela’s home to sing Christmas carols and present him with a check.

Barela was surprised to see the carolers in his front yard, and invited them inside. Barela and his family were overcome with emotion upon receiving the donation. “Niwot High has opened my eyes to people. I never really had anyone there before except family,” Barela told the carolers.

He later told the group that he wanted to pay back for all the help he has received.

IB coordinator Julie Webster told him that he had already paid forward. In a letter to IB families, Webster stated, “[Andy’s] dedication to his work and to the students and staff was exceptional. His kind words, cheerful disposition and positive attitude endeared him to us all.”

Each December the junior and senior classes of the IB program adopt families in need of assistance. This year, the students unanimously agreed to combine their efforts and adopt Barela’s family. The students will also provide a holiday meal and gifts for the Barela children.
Barela’s spirit showed through in his comment, “Physically, mentally I’ll beat it. Financially, it’s been tough.”

All State Orchestra Students

Six orchestra students have been chosen for the Colorado All State Orchestra. They are Stephanie Sparks on oboe,
David Hathcock on horn, Jonathan Lin, Joseph Lin, and Elanie Lee all on violin.

The All State Orchestra will perform on Feb. 11 at the Lincoln Center in Fort Collins. The students will spend three days in Fort Collins rehearsing for this year’s concert which is the organization’s 60th.