Left Hand Valley Courier - All Local, All The Time

On Friday Oct. 5, a cadre of tweenage ninjas-in-training jumped, swung, and climbed their way through a colorful obstacle course that tested the strength and agility of even the most seasoned trainees. In the process, they raised more than $15,000 for the Sunset Middle Parent Advisory Committee, which will go towards upgrades in the school's interior, and a new sound system for the cafeteria.

Jocelyn Rowley

Fifth graders from Indian Peaks Elementary wait for a final try at the ninja course at Sunset Middle's fourth annual Fall Crawl fundraiser on Oct. 4.

The obstacle course was a new twist to Sunset's annual Fall Crawl fundraiser, and both parents and students enthusiastically agreed that it was a welcome change from the former jog-a-thon format. The course was also popular with the 5th graders from Burlington, Indian Peaks, and Niwot Elementary schools, who were invited to take part as rising Sunset middle students.

"We tried to have something a little bit different, and it's just been awesome," Sunset principal Anthony Barela said. "The kids are excited about running the course, and they've had a lot of fun cheering each other on and have a great positive attitude. It's been a fantastic day."

Meeting their fundraising goal means that Sunset's students will once again watch as Principal Barela makes good on a promise.

"I will be getting some type of unique haircut, so that ought to be fun," he said. Last year, Barela ended up with a Mohawk, which might not have been his top choice for a new 'do. "If it's for kids, I'll do whatever it takes."