WBHS Rallies to Support Mr. Alvin!

There is a special bond among the Winder-Barrow High School staff. Alvin Shivers has been a custodian for the high school for the past ten years. When he needed cataract surgery, the WBHS staff rallied to make sure he could receive the care he needed.

Within his years of employment, he had built a community within the building. Michelle Harris, WBHS' ELA Teacher / Yearbook Advisor, and Shivers had built a strong friendship throughout the years.

One day when Shivers and Harris were having their daily conversation, he expressed his concerns about his poor vision. Most days he works until midnight, and he was having difficulty seeing to drive home after work.

His out-of-pocket cost would be $500 per eye. Harris knew she had to act and help Shivers get the surgery that he needed.

"I was worried about him driving at night, we love Mr. Alvin, and he takes care of us. As a faculty, we did not see why we could not take care of him for once," said Harris. "He takes care of us every day, so we thought that we could take care of him."

Harris took it upon herself to send out an email to the faculty and staff of WBHS asking for help. She expressed how much Shivers means to the school and how he is a caring and genuine human. It was a no-brainer, the rest of the staff jumped in to help Shivers.

"It was a surprise. I had just started my shift and Ms. Harris gave me a basket that her sister had put together. It was full of soups and crackers, and then she told me that I would be getting my surgery," said Shivers.

The entire faculty raised the funds for Alvin Shivers to receive his much-needed surgery. He was moved with gratitude.

Shivers received his surgery on February 6. Harris took the day off to drive him to his appointment and the two of them enjoyed a warm breakfast after the successful procedure.

There is no denying the WBHS staff is family. The GG bond is strong!