Everett, Wash.
Published: Thursday, January 15, 2009

Super kid / Luis Torres, 14: Boy with Asperger's blossoms at Granite Falls Middle School

By Eric Stevick
Herald Writer

 Making his mark: The eighth-grader, who has Asperger's Syndrome, a high-functioning form of autism, has endeared himself to the staff at Granite Falls Middle School for his strong work ethic, willingness to help others and politeness. In November, the Granite Falls School Board gave him the district's quarterly Success In Education award. It represents a student's understanding of the importance of education and contributions at school.

Masterful memory: Luis amazes people with his vast knowledge of auto racing history. The Herald tested his recall, asking him several dates and events. For example, he correctly answered the following with the name of the driver and other information: 1982 Daytona 500, Bobby Allison, Buick; 1984 Indianapolis 500, Rick Mears, Penzzoil; 1999 Indianapolis 500, Kenny Brack for A.J.. Foyt Enterprises.

Studying the past: He has watched highlights of races dating back decades. The race he most wishes he could have watched live was the 1992 Hooters 500 in Atlanta.

Racing fan: "My favorite auto racing is pretty much anything that has to do with four wheels."

Dream trip: Some day he would love to watch a NASCAR event in person.

Smooth landing: Fifth grade was a hard time for Luis, who moved to Granite Falls more than four years ago, but middle school has been a wonderful experience. "When I came here, everything just changed. That's when I got respect." He was elected to the student body senate, largely with support of older students, when he was in the sixth grade.

Sideline helper: Luis has been manager for the middle school football and basketball teams. He frequently is asked to keep statistics in basketball and, as an editor for the yearbook, often takes sports pictures and other photos on campus. He also has run cross country and track in the past.

Opening up: It once was hard for Luis to talk to people, but he said he is becoming increasingly comfortable sharing his thoughts with others. "I have really grown a lot in my speaking abilities. I was sort of the quiet one who would not talk very much."

Career goals: Auto racing or TV broadcasting.

Favorite movies: As a child, he would watch "Toy Story," rewinding it over and over again. Now he likes "Grand Prix" and the "Rocky" series, particularly the first and third movies in the series.

Lots of help: Luis credits his former middle school counselor, Tom Arlt, who is now a principal in Eastern Washington, for being his mentor and helping him do well and fit in. He also praises his seventh-grade language arts teacher, Miss Chaundy, for helping him learn punctuation and enjoy writing. "I used to have these long, long run-on sentences."

Music buff: Luis also has vast knowledge of rock 'n roll trivia, dating back to Chuck Berry and Elvis Presley. He lists the Beatles among his favorites.

Close family: He shares a bedroom at home and is the oldest of four children with brothers Alberto and David, and sister, Fernanda.

Reporter Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446 or e-mail stevick@heraldnet.com.

Know a super kid? Contact us at 425-339-3036 or e-mail schoolfyi@heraldnet.com.
© 2009The Daily Herald Co., Everett, WA