Name: Michael S. Bonnet
Age: 17
School: Lahainaluna High
Favorite subject: Science
Pastimes: Hiking, swimming
Future: Scientist

As then-supervisor of the system, Charles Bonnet applied scientific methods to solve turbidity and chlorination problems.

"He'd explain what he was doing. It was interesting because a lot of filters in the water system he built himself," Bonnet said.

Lahainaluna counselor Art Fillazar said Bonnet, a National Merit scholar and Sterling Scholar, is a leader.

"He's not afraid to step in and do it," said Fillazar.

Bonnet was president of the National Honor Society, vice president of the school's Pacific and Asian Affairs Council and treasurer of the school band, where he played tenor saxophone.

Bonnet, who wants to become a research scientist, will attend Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which has offered him financial aid.

He has a 4.1 grade point average and took advanced placement courses in U.S. history, English and calculus.

Bonnet said he's grateful for help from teachers, including his freshman and junior science teacher Donald Chaney, who retired last year.

His parents helped him apply for the scholarships.

"They've always encouraged me in all that I've wanted to pursue," Bonnet said.