The Courier-Herald

Arlene Prieto isn't necessarily the flashiest kid on the White River High School campus, but she's destined to make a positive impact on society.

"She's just very consistent, very conscientious," said White River counselor Robbie Lapin. "We're certain she's going to be a good, solid citizen."

When the school was contacted recently and staff was asked to suggest a student that exemplifies what White River is all about, Lapin was quick to offer Prieto's name. The White River staff, Lapin said, values substance and depth in their students, and Prieto has that in spades, she said.

Prieto is much less likely to toot her own horn.

But, during a brief conversation about her White River experiences, Prieto's value to the student body is clearly established. She has been an outstanding student, graduating with a 3.6 grade-point average, and says it's "math…definitely," when asked about her favorite courses. She took an Advanced Placement course in calculus and also added an AP course in government.

But there's more to school than just academics, and Prieto has displayed a leadership role in Key Club, serving one year as secretary and two years as treasurer. During her time with the club, students have trick-or-treated for donations to the local food bank and Unicef and sponsored a Christmas toy drive, which culminates in a pizza party for the area's needy citizens.

The 17-year-old will be heading to Central Washington University in Ellensburg in the fall, with plans on becoming an elementary school teacher. She chose CWU for its education department, but also because "I just love small towns."

She's enjoyed her White River High School experience, citing friendliness and "the cozy little environment."

Kevin Hanson can be reached at khanson@courierherald.com