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At just 10 years old, Kalani already has the travel baseball rings to rival Tom Brady. He’s been playing since he was six and has racked up game-winning runs, MVP titles, and even took home the “Fastest Runner” award at Ripken Myrtle Beach. That was also the site of one of his favorite memories—walking it off with the winning run and grabbing MVP in the same game.

Kalani started out as a catcher but quickly realized he belonged on the mound. Pitcher is now his favorite spot, and he’s got the arsenal to back it up: fastball, cutter, curveball, and a sharp slider. When asked whether he'd rather get the final out or drive in the winning run, it was an easy choice. Pitching gets him locked in.

His favorite place he's played is Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Something about the mountains and sky made it feel like he was playing above the clouds. But as fun as travel tournaments are, he’s quick to point out how much work it takes. Practice four days a week, then games all weekend. It’s a grind, but one he clearly loves.

Kalani’s pregame routine is simple—just one deep breath to get focused. Since he started, he’s proudest of how far his hitting has come. He’s on a team made up of the best of the best in the region, and he’s got big goals ahead. High school, college ball, and hopefully a shot at the MLB. If he had to choose, he’d suit up for the Braves.

He wrapped the interview with advice for anyone chasing a sport or skill. “Keep going. Don’t give up. Don’t stop even when you feel like you can’t.” He gave shoutouts to his brothers, his teams, and especially his mom for always being there, driving him wherever he needs to go.

Kalani is the kind of student-athlete who makes you believe that the big dreams aren’t too big after all. Stay Hootworthy, Kalani!

🎙️ Hootworthy: The Podcast That Gives a Hoot
We’re all about spotlighting the incredible students and faculty of GCA—their achievements, passions, and stories that deserve to be heard. Watch full episodes on YouTube: Hootworthy Playlist

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When Dr. Felicia Lowman-Sikes walked into the kitchen during her lunch break and saw the GCA leadership team waiting, she had no idea what was coming. She was about to be named District Teacher of the Year. Cue the cameras, a little disbelief, and a lot of emotion.

Felicia teaches kindergarten and brings energy, heart, and a love of learning into every lesson. She sings songs about nouns. She plans Fun Fridays with color themes and silly wigs. Her goal is simple. She wants every student to feel loved and to love learning.

She didn’t always plan on being a teacher. Law school was the original path until one education class gave her a glimpse of the classroom. That moment changed everything. She went on to earn her doctorate in curriculum and instruction and says she keeps learning because she wants to make a real difference.

One of the best compliments she’s ever received came after the school year ended. A student sent her a voice message saying he missed her, wanted to come back to school, and loved her. That kind of love sticks.

Outside the classroom, Felicia finds peace in the outdoors. She loves gardening, hiking, and camping with her family. Her students have taught her a lot too. She’s learned to stay resilient and not take life too seriously.

She gives credit to her entire primary team, her co-teachers, her parapro Kay, her administrators, and her husband and daughter. This award is a celebration of her impact, but also of the people who support her along the way.

🎙️ Hootworthy: The Podcast That Gives a Hoot
We’re all about spotlighting the incredible students and faculty of GCA—their achievements, passions, and stories that deserve to be heard. Watch full episodes on YouTube: Hootworthy Playlist

📲 Follow, subscribe, and share—because every story deserves a spotlight!

Send us a text

Omolade is GCA’s 2025 Valedictorian—but her story goes beyond grades. She’s an encourager, an athlete, and a future nurse with a mindset built on faith, hard work, and heart. In this episode, she shares how she stayed grounded, what helped her push through, and why showing up as yourself matters most. Enjoy the show.

🎙️ Hootworthy: The Podcast That Gives a Hoot
We’re all about spotlighting the incredible students and faculty of GCA—their achievements, passions, and stories that deserve to be heard. Watch full episodes on YouTube: Hootworthy Playlist

📲 Follow, subscribe, and share—because every story deserves a spotlight!