Clearwater High School sophomore Lizzy Tjaden knew she wanted to get involved in more activities upon entering high school. After speaking with an upperclassman, Tjaden decided on the SAFE (Seatbelts Are For Everyone) program. 

“I have been involved in the SAFE program since my freshman year. An older member of SAFE approached me about joining. So, I decided to join SAFE because it promotes healthy and nondestructive decisions for teenagers,” said Tjaden. 

Helping her classmates is important to Tjaden and the SAFE program provides an avenue for turning her peers onto the importance of seatbelt safety. “It’s important to help others because it’s the right thing to do. I enjoy helping others,” said Tjaden. “I would encourage others to join SAFE because it promotes healthy decisions and educates them while doing fun activities with your friends.”

Tjaden is a three-sport athlete playing varsity volleyball, basketball, and softball for Clearwater High School. “I am the defensive specialist for our volleyball team, a shooting guard for our basketball team and I played second base for our softball team,” said Tjaden. “I love how our teammates all get along. We have so much fun and laugh a lot.”

Tjaden said being a student-athlete at Clearwater is great because of the small hometown feel.“Whether on the court, field or classroom it feels like family,” said Tjaden. 

Academics are another area of her student life where Tjaden remains focus on making the most of every opportunity. Tjaden would like to attend college and continue her education and athletic career. 

“I know my high school academics are important to gain the knowledge I need to go to college. Practicing time management and study skills will prepare for what is ahead,” said Tjaden. “I would like to play college basketball and study nursing.” When she has some down time, Tjaden enjoys being with friends and family.“My two favorite things to do are going to the lake and playing basketball,” said Tjaden.