Anybody spotted a smiling sixth grader walking a mini Goldendoodle around Vinings Estates? If so, you’ve probably met Claire Wellons. She’s been your neighbor for the past ten years, and boy, she keeps herself busy, so try to keep up! 

Claire’s only 11 years old, but she’s already balancing an impressive list of activities and accomplishments. Her school days are spent in DLI (Dual Language Immersion) program – half the day in English & half in Spanish. She keeps herself constantly challenged through Nickajack Elementary’s Advanced Curriculum ELA, the Target gifted program, and National BETA Club. Thanks to plenty of hard work (and some wonderful teachers like Mr. Mateo and Ms. Gomez), she’s now fluent in Spanish and committed to studying French and Dutch in her spare time! 

Never one to sit idle, Claire is also learning piano and pushes herself physically with swimming. She even took up chess. Clearly, learning new things isn’t just something she enjoys, it’s a part of who she is. When asked who inspires her most, Claire doesn’t hesitate: “My grandfather, Papa, has had a great influence on me,” she says. “We have long conversations about his childhood and like to read his father’s book, No Two Alike, together. The book reminds us that everyone has their own strengths and how we are all different. My Papa always inspires growth, being a life-long learner, and always trying your hardest.”

That dedication to self-improvement has paid off. Claire is especially proud of becoming fluent in Spanish, gaining entrance to her school’s advanced academic programs, and winning second place at the Invention Convention. Her biggest takeaway? “Knowing that I can accomplish anything I dream of really makes me happy” she says. Like many students, Claire has also faced challenges. Between academics and after-school activities, finding balance isn’t always easy. She’s also experienced bullying, an experience that only strengthened her belief in treating others with compassion. “My primary focus is being a kind person,” Claire shares, a goal that shines through in everything she does.  Looking toward the future, Claire hopes to make a meaningful difference in the world. One cause especially close to her heart is protecting the environment. “I want to help stop global warming and support charities that preserve our planet,” she says. “I wish more people would help take care of the Earth.”

Her advice for other kids is simple but powerful: don’t be afraid to try something new. Claire admits she wasn’t sure she’d enjoy piano when she first started, but within weeks she was playing songs. She felt the same uncertainty when beginning Spanish in kindergarten, yet today she’s truly multilingual!

When she’s not studying or learning new skills, Claire enjoys shopping with her mom, watching The Great British Baking Show, making smoothies and crafts, reading, and, of course, spending time with Bailey. Oh, fun fact: She’s given Bailey more than 75 nicknames! She also enjoys walking Bailey around VE and playing with neighborhood friends.