RATHDRUM - Pursuing a dental career makes Kami Jordan smile.

The senior at Mountain View Alternative High School in Rathdrum plans to attend North Idaho College after graduation to knock off some core classes before transferring to the dental school at Eastern Washington University to become a dental hygienist.

"I've always been interested in dentistry," she said. "I think dental hygiene is important to your body. You need to eat and use your mouth for a lot of vital things."

Jordan said she's also interested in the field because it's a chance to help people.

At Mountain View, where Jordan has attended the past three years, she has been involved in student council, the yearbook committee and walking club.

"We walk in the morning before school," she said. "It's good exercise and you can get a PE credit if you like. It's a good way to start your morning, getting a nice walk in."

With student council - there's no positions such as president at the school - Jordan has helped organize programs, field trips and other activities.

The yearbook project is available to work on if Jordan and other students have free time.

"You just go down to see Mr. (Mark) Gorton to work on it," said Jordan, adding that she's involved with layout of the pages.

Jordan's activities at school have been rewarding.

"I just enjoy being involved in school and helping out," she said. "I like to give back because they've given to me."

Jordan said Mountain View has helped her catch up on credits and she's gotten to know the staff on a personal basis. She'll also graduate after three years instead of four and has had a 4.0 GPA.

"They give you incentives to want to do better and will give you extra help if you need it," she said. "They give you time to grow. A lot of kids are not ready to buckle down, but by the end they are. I'm very happy I came here."