Everett, Wash.
Published: Tuesday, January 22, 2008

Super Kid: Matt Beeninga, 17, Mountlake Terrace High School senior

 Childhood: Has enjoyed growing up in a cul-de-sac in Brier where he could play kick the can and cops and robbers, build forts in the woods, and have water-gun fights with his neighbors.

Plans: Is applying to the University of Washington and several private colleges in Western Washington. Is considering business or teaching majors but says it is too early to tell.

On the run: Has been member of cross country, basketball and track teams through high school. Is point guard for his school's basketball team and will be captain of the track team.

Lofty goal: Wants to compete in an Iron Man competition "before I get too old." The event includes swimming, cycling and running.

Oui, oui: Taking fourth-year French, largely because he likes his teacher.

Full load: Besides French, schedule includes college-level Advanced Placement government and statistics as well as college-credit astronomy, senior English and vocal jazz.

Back in time: Taking Advanced Placement European history as a sophomore was his toughest class in high school. There was a lot of reading and the chapters were dense. Best memory of the class was getting to re-enact trench warfare with marshmallows, but there was a writing assignment at the end.

Stepping up: Serves on the Edmonds School Board as a student adviser. "I get to see what goes on at the top level and watch things filter down to the schools. I think it's good experience to be able to see what it's like, how people make decisions."

Favorite TV show: ESPN Sports Center.

Helping out: Is a peer mediator at his school, helping students resolve their differences in a confidential setting. "It's nice to see two people who were fighting apologize to each other. It makes you feel good that you helped."

Smooth transition: Also has been on school's LINK crew, which helps freshmen get used to high school.

Favorite book: "Holes," by Louis Sachar.

Two left feet: May be athletic but doesn't like to dance. He and his girlfriend go to dances. "I like to eat the food and we get the pictures."

Stripes and whistles: Has been a referee for four years, which gives him a greater appreciation for people calling his high school games. "I know you aren't going to get every call."

Favorite cereal: Lucky Charms.

Favorite breakfast: Bagel with cream cheese, a banana and a cup of apple cider.

Good example: "My parents are my biggest role models and I actually enjoy going to school."



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© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA