Super Kid: Kristine Solis of Weston High in Arlington

On the move: Weston High School, an alternative school campus in Arlington, is Kristine Solis’ fourth high school. She moved to Washington from Missouri.

Opening up: Kristine said she was very quiet when she started high school. The small school atmosphere at Weston helped her make new friends and establish close relationships with her teachers.

On track: Despite the frequent moves, she is scheduled to graduate on time and plans to attend Skagit Valley College in Mount Vernon in the fall. She is interested in wildlife conservation.

Helping out: Kristine has long had a deep interest in Africa, including its ancient history and animals. Her mother said it dates back to the first time she watched the Disney movie “The Lion King” when she was 3. Kristine also wants to help alleviate poverty in Africa. She led a book drive and other fundraisers that collected about $700 for a Kenyan orphanage to help with its school. She’s also planning a garage sale this summer to aid the orphanage.

Setting goals: Someday she wants to work in Africa. “I don’t want to change a whole country. If I help one person breathe easier, then I will feel like I have accomplished something.”

Familiar face: Her younger sister, Rio, also attends Weston, but they don’t see much of each other on campus. “When she needs a favor, I see her,” Kristine said with a smile.

Chiming in: Her senior project was making wind chimes by fusing recycled glass.

Favorite subjects: History and English.

Good reads: An avid reader, Kristine said “The Vampire Lestat” by Anne Rice and “Another Roadside Attraction” by Tom Robbins are among her favorite books.

Odd hobby: Kristine likes to pick up litter at parks.

Transplanted: When she moved to Washington, she missed Missouri. Now she can’t imagine moving back. She sees herself living on the West Coast. “I cannot be landlocked. I won’t do it. It’s a feeling almost of freedom. I love living near the water.”

Eric Stevick: 425-339-3446, stevick@heraldnet.com.