Champ Chatter Parent Newsletter

Mary Manning’s path to Teacher of the Year started with something pretty simple: talking too much and helping classmates. Now, she’s still doing what she loves most, helping students find that moment when reading finally clicks and they realize, “I did it.”

Talisa shares what it was like to earn valedictorian while also leading in FBLA and winning Miss Albany Teen. She reflects on the work behind the scenes, what leadership really means to her, and how it all came together. A grounded look at doing a lot and doing it well.

Izzy shares how a simple try-it-out moment turned into a serious pursuit in archery. After struggling in her first competition, she came back to win her next with the highest score in Georgia. A grounded story about focus, growth, and sticking with something long enough to see it pay off.

Nora shares how she went from watching a competition team in awe to performing on stage and accepting a first place trophy with her own team. She reflects on overcoming nerves, building friendships, and learning patience through dance. A heartfelt look at growth, confidence, and doing what you love.

Caleb shares what it was like to serve as Georgia’s Beta Senior Leadership Representative, from interviewing at the Summit to speaking on stage and judging competitions. He reflects on how the experience built his confidence and reshaped how he sees leadership. A look at what it really means to step up and serve.

Abigail discovered early on that raising goats takes patience, grit and a sense of humor. She stuck with it, grew from it and earned real wins along the way. Her story shows what happens when you find something that fits and give it everything you’ve got.

Khloe never pictured herself on the news, but a family friend’s suggestion turned into something much bigger. After nervously auditioning and making it through rounds of tough competition, she became one of 13WMAZ’s Junior Journalists — even getting the surprise announcement at her front door. From learning how much work goes on behind the scenes to interviewing community leaders, Khloe’s Hootworthy journey is all about curiosity, courage, and stepping up to the mic.

Kalani might only be 10, but he’s already racking up MVP titles, travel baseball rings, and a fastball-slider combo that keeps batters guessing. Whether he's pitching under the mountain skies of Pigeon Forge or walking off championships in Myrtle Beach, he plays with heart, hustle, and humility. From big dreams of the MLB to shoutouts for his family and teammates, Kalani proves that greatness starts with grit.

Dr. Felicia Lowman-Sikes just might be the most unforgettable kindergarten teacher at GCA—pink wig, silly songs, and all. As our District Teacher of the Year, she’s earned the spotlight not just for her credentials, but for the way she makes every student feel seen, loved, and excited to learn. From garden hikes to noun songs, Dr. Lowman-Sikes proves that teaching with heart is what truly sticks.