Berit Anderson, 18, Lakewood High School senior

Published 9:00 pm Monday, March 29, 2004

Future teacher? Berit Anderson has volunteered in elementary classrooms in the Lakewood School District, and, more recently, with deaf and hearing-impaired students in the Edmonds School District. "I know for sure I want to work with children, probably as an elementary school teacher," she said. "I just really like kids. Ever since I was in kindergarten I wanted to be a teacher."

Future teacher? Part II: "For my birthdays when I was younger, I got school supplies," she said. "That’s what I wanted. I would always ask for a new desk or a new chalkboard."

Splitting time: Berit spends part of her school day at Lakewood High School and part at Everett Community College, where she takes a sign language class as a Running Start student. After she graduates from LHS, she plans to complete her associate’s degree at EvCC before transferring to a four-year university.

A change of scenery: Berit attended Everett schools until her freshmen year when she transferred to Lakewood. "It was a big change. I went to Eisenhower Middle School and there were way more people. Lakewood seemed really small," she said. "Everyone knew everyone and I was this new person. … I really like the school because it has given me so many opportunities I might not have had otherwise."

A close friend: As a ninth-grader turning out for cross country, Berit met teammate Amber Nash, who is hearing impaired. They soon became very close friends. Amber taught her American Sign Language "and from there we have just been side by side." During track season, Berit travels with her friend and helps interpret when needed.

Toughest assignments: Dissecting a rat, forensics class and "Wuthering Heights" by Emily Bronte.

Honors and enjoyment: Berit, who has a 3.2 grade point average, was recently named her high school’s department scholar in the career and technical education program. She also has earned a prestigious WoHeLo award in Camp Fire. She likes to shop, listen to country music, ride bikes and has regularly painted her fingernails since the third grade.

Graduation approaches: "College seems like the next step," she said. "You don’t have to worry about all people’s drama. But I will miss it. I have had great teachers and good friends."

Know a super kid? Call us at 425-339-3036 or schoolfyi@heraldnet.com.