Super Kid: Paige Barger, Granite Falls High School

Q: You're in the Running Start program at Everett Community College. Is this your first year taking college courses?

A: I did it last year, but I only took one class and this year I'm taking two. Last year I just wanted to get a feel of it. I like classes offered here, but I wanted more of a challenge.

Q: What classes are you taking?

A: Right now I'm in Fiction 1 and Pacific Northwest History. I have my first- and second-period classes here, and right now I have two online classes so I don't actually have to drive out (to Everett).

Q: One of your classes at the high school is band. What instrument do you play?

A: I play bass clarinet for concert and regular clarinet for pep band.

Q: When did you start playing the clarinet?

A: In the fifth grade. I do like playing bass clarinet more, but I don't own one so pretty much after high school I'm done playing bass clarinet.

Q: You helped at summer band camp for younger musicians. Tell me about that experience.

A: There were groups, one of fifth-, sixth- and seventh-graders who were just learning to play. The next group was the sixth-, seventh- and eighth-graders that were more experienced players. We could teach high school songs and they would be able to play them. Each camp was three days. The first camp had a couple kids who were trying out bass clarinet so that was fun.

Q: You're also a Link Crew leader who helps new students adjust to the school.

A: I think it's more so to make sure everyone feels comfortable when they come into this school. When I was a freshman, I thought this school was so big, and I was terrified of everything. My link crew leaders did a great job of making me feel included and comfortable, and that's kind of why I wanted to do it. I wanted to make sure other students have that feeling. Just seeing the kids that were in my Link Crew group, you can just tell it's not as scary as it would have been coming in and not knowing anyone.

Q: Are you involved in sports?

A: I do cross country, basketball and track.

Q: It's basketball season. How's it going?

A: We're doing good. I think we're ranked third right now.

Q: Is there anything happening at school that you're looking forward to at this moment?

A: Tolo. It's on Feb. 25.

Q: How did you ask your boyfriend to the dance?

A: I had our assistant principal go to his class and pull him out, saying that she needed some information about a recent activity that had taken place. Throughout the hallways there were people holding signs saying "Andrew, will you go to tolo with me?" (with) each word on a sign. I held the "me?" sign in the office. He walked in and said, "Of course." I have a date!

Q: Do you like to read or do you have any hobbies?

A: I do like reading. I actually just finished "The Hunger Game" series. I loved it. I'm also really into photography.

Q; What got you interested in photography?

A: I went on a mission trip my freshman year up in Esperanza, Canada, and it was just beautiful. On that trip one of our leaders had a camera and she let me borrow it.

Q: Are you thinking about majoring in photography?

A: I actually want to major in psychology. I love talking to people and getting to know who they are. I would love to do something with photography on the side.

Q: Are you looking forward to graduation?

A: Yes and no. There's a lot of decisions. I've applied to Central Washington University, University of North Dakota, University of Montana, Arizona State University and Western Washington University.



Amy Daybert: 425-339-3491; adaybert@heraldnet.com.