BHS Sophomore Dies Unexpectedly

April 13, 8 a.m.

The death of a student is always emotional for friends and classmates. On Saturday, local counselors will be available if anyone needs care and encouragement, according to the Barrington 220 Facebook page. Visit them for free support at the Barrington Village Hall from 9 to 12 noon Saturday.

April 12, 1 p.m.

The Barrington High School student who died this morning, Nicholas Wardrip, was 16 years old and lived in unincorporated Cook County, said Jeff Arnett, communications director for Barrington 220.

He said the Cook County Coroner has not yet released the official cause of death.

BHS students were told about the death at the same time Supt. Tom Leonard sent a news alert to the community (see below).

"We have a great team of crisis counselors immediately available. Unfortunately, he has a sister who is a student at the school so the circle of influence widens," Arnett said.

Arnett said prior to Principal Steve McWilliams' announcement to the student body, students who were in the teen's circle of friends were pulled out of class to be told the news separately and to receive additional support.

"We have a very caring community and we want to do whatever we can," Arnett said.

April 12, 12:30 p.m.

Barrington High School Supt. Tom Leonard sent an alert that a student died this morning:

"Barrington High School officials were notified Friday morning that a student died unexpectedly at his home in the Barrington area. Sophomore Nicholas Wardrip will be sadly missed by his classmates, teachers and family.

Words cannot convey the heartache we feel from this loss. The life of each student is precious. At this moment, our deepest thoughts and condolences are extended to the Wardrip family.  

As with previous incidents, immediate care from Barrington 220 social workers, psychologists and area counselors is available throughout the afternoon and weekend. The Guidance Resource Center at the high school will be open today and again next week for those who need help processing this news.

I know you join us in expressing condolences for Nicholas and his family. We embrace all students today during this time of sorrow. Please do the same for your child as he or she is with you before we return to school on Monday. On behalf of Principal Steve McWilliams and the BHS community, thank you for your respect, sensitivity and support."