Kai W. Gary
Executive Director
Kai W. Gary is a native of Atlanta, Georgia, raised in Alabama. Knowledge Works Learning Academy, Inc. (KWLA) was birth in the mind of Kai when she became a single mother at the age of 19. The joyful moments of motherhood, juggling fulltime work, class assignments with deadlines was challenging. Without the help of her mother and older sister assisting Kai, completing her Bachelor and Masters in Collaborative Teacher at Alabama State University was unreachable. Kai continued pursuing her Specialist in Educational Leadership at Columbus State University and is currently pursuing a doctorate in Educational Leadership. The struggle was real yet productive, many life lessons learned.
As her son Aiyinde became older, local communities lacked holistic after-school and summer programs creating barriers and hindered Kai fulfilling work obligations.
KWLA, Inc., founded November 2016 became the solution answering the need of the community, providing a stable safe environment for working families and single-parent homes who desire more than the status quo. Kai used her life pain, turned into purpose by paying it forward, being that beacon of light of hope to others. Kai connects with students and families in unique ways whose struggles mirror some of the same infirmities she has experienced. Kai’s favorite quote from Education, page 52 says, “He who seeks to transform humanity must himself understand humanity.
Kai enjoys giving back to the youth in the Chattahoochee Valley area. KWLA’s
before/ after and summer programs are just Phase One of a larger vision. Kai’s 13-year journey as a K-12th special education teacher and district instructional coach, prepared her to assist local school systems close academic achievement gaps through innovative research-based practices. Kai’s life experiences allow her to connect with students and parents in a unique way. Kai enjoys cooking, singing, physical fitness and spending quality time with family.