Students at Barker Middle School in Michigan City have done it again: This year, they raised $1,805 to support the American Heart Association through a “Kids Heart Challenge” fundraiser. For a minimum donation of $5, students reported to the gym during the last class period before spring break for some heart-healthy activities: they played either dodge ball or “Omnikin ball” — which is played with a giant ball on a volleyball court. This year, the event took place on Friday, March 29 and more than 200 students took part. The effort was spearheaded and promoted by the Barker Student Council and teacher adviser Mariah Pol; Gym activities were organized by teacher Bruce Parker. Barker’s top fundraiser was seventh-grader Madison Rabatine, who brought in $600 for the cause. She says most of the funds were donated by relatives, in memory of her father, Wallace Rabatine, who died of a heart condition when she was 7 years old. The fundraiser has become a tradition for the school on the final day before spring break. Over the past decade, $14,800 has been raised for the American Heart Association by Barker students.