Kaylen Sykes: A Go-Getter, Supporter and Advocate
Kaylen Sykes is the ultimate well-rounded student.
At Pine Forest High School, she has jumped into action. She is a member of the Student Government Association, National Technical Honor Society, National Honor Society, Key Club, Chick-Fil-A Leadership Academy, Two-Six Project and participates in Varsity Soccer and Varsity Golf.
“My favorite extracurricular I am a part of is Student Government (SGA),” said Kaylen. “I have participated in SGA all four years and have learned to be flexible in situations, step up to take initiative when needed, and work with others to create something. SGA has been critical to developing my leadership and I owe my favorite high school memories to the club such as going to events with my friends or even planning it altogether.”
Kaylen has stayed involved while also maintaining excellent grades, working a part-time job and undertaking a large service project. Since her junior year, Kaylen wanted to create a community outreach event for the six feeder elementary schools in her area, and this spring, she and other members of SGA will host a spring festival. Kaylen is helping to plan all aspects of the event that include dates, activities, school involvement and student jobs.
“Kaylen is an exceptionally well-rounded student who truly stands out in every area she pursues,” said Dr. Juelle McDonald, principal at Pine Forest High School. “She is a star soccer player, serves as Student Body President and is actively involved in multiple school activities. Kaylen demonstrates tremendous school pride and leads by example in both academics and extracurriculars. With outstanding grades and a strong work ethic, she consistently excels and gives her best in all that she does.”
Last May, Kaylen was recognized with the WRAL Tom Suiter Extra Effort Award, which recognizes one student-athlete each week who excels on the playing field, in the classroom and in the community. She was extremely proud of this award, especially since her brother received it a few years ago.
“This award highlighted both my academic and athletic accomplishments but furthermore recognized the effort it took to strive in both,” Kaylen said. “Academically, I maintained a 4.0 GPA throughout the year and athletically, I was a part of an amazing team.”
During the 2025 season, for the first time in 20 years, the Lady Trojans were undefeated in conference play. Kaylen was recognized as the conference offensive player of the year.
After high school, Kaylen plans to pursue a four-year degree in political science and eventually go to law school.
“I have always known that the biggest motivator to what I want to become professionally, is serving on behalf of others and the best way I believe this can be done is through our legal system,” Kaylen said. “The law interests me because of its wide ranging scope that combines my value of service and empathy while also fulfilling my drive to be challenged and problem solve.”
As Kaylen looks to the future, she reflects on the foundation she has received at Pine Forest High. She was a dually enrolled student at Fayetteville Technical Community College, which allowed her to earn tuition-free college credit toward a college degree. She was also a part of this year’s Strategic Planning Committee.
“Cumberland County Schools has prepared me for my future by supporting my academic journey and implementing opportunities for students like me to speak and grow as an individual leader,” Kaylen said. “I had the opportunity to be a part of this year's Strategic Planning Committee for 2026-2030 and feel fortunate to be a part of a room where I can give student opinions and feel valued for them. Every member of that committee and individual of CCS has shown me the utmost respect, guidance and kindness that I do not take for granted.”