Ziyah Laird (9) is jumping into her first year with excitement and a passion for making many new connections. She is looking forward to having new experiences, building new connections with friends and teachers, and getting used to high school life. Although she is a bit nervous to get into new clubs, she has already taken the first big step by going Atherton’s Beta Club, and is ready to join more, including the Women’s Empowerment Club. 

“I want to join clubs because I want to do more for the school and it will also look good to colleges,” Laird explained. “But also I just want to join clubs that I’m interested in and feel like I can connect with.”

Laird brings more creative energy to Atherton as she has a talent for art, sewing, crafts, and drawing. She first discovered her love and talent for art during Covid, when she was drawing in her free time. “I think in sixth grade I started taking more art classes and stuff like that, and I got really good at it. Even in my free time I was just drawing.”

She has already created many amazing pieces including a piñata for Day of the Dead and a handmade stuffed animal. Laird said her main passion currently is art as she not only does crafts, but also has amazing skills with freehand art. 

Before coming to Atherton, Laird went to Meyzeek Middle School. “ I feel like the transition was easy for me. But also I think about how eighth grade ended and it was really fun.”

Laird said she is making friends and is excited to continue her journey at Atherton. She mentioned goals of continuing her hobbies and making friends. When asked about something that motivates her she said “Just keep going.”