A former kindergarten teacher is facing criminal charges over alleged sexual misconduct with a minor. She has made a request from the judge based on giving birth earlier this year.
Keep reading to learn more.
Nikki Callaham, who previously worked as a teacher in South Carolina, gave birth in February 2026. Her legal team subsequently requested changes to the conditions she must follow while awaiting trial, including restrictions related to house arrest and her GPS ankle monitor.
The case has drawn attention because of the allegations made by the former student, who says the abuse began when he was just 14 years old.
How The Former Teacher Allegedly Became Close To Her Student
According to the student, Grant Strickland, the alleged abuse began in 2021 after the two met through a local theater production of Legally Blonde, which Callaham directed.
Strickland’s family claims that Callaham gradually developed a closer relationship with the teenager, offering him rides and communicating with him online.
His mother has also alleged that Callaham’s young daughter was present with Callaham and Strickland during some of the alleged incidents.
The accusations have since become the subject of criminal proceedings, with Callaham facing charges in two South Carolina counties.
What Charges Nikki Callaham Faces
Callaham faces charges in Anderson and Greenville counties, including criminal sexual conduct with a minor and unlawful conduct toward a child.
She resigned from her teaching position in May 2025, and her teaching license was suspended.
At a hearing in June, Callaham’s attorney reportedly asked the court to remove her GPS ankle monitor and lift her house-arrest restrictions. According to FOX Carolina News, the request was supported by references to her doctor’s recommendation and the fact that she had recently given birth.
However, Strickland opposed easing the restrictions, arguing that his safety should remain a priority.
He also spoke about the lasting impact he believes the alleged abuse has had on his physical health and his relationship with food and exercise.
The judge ultimately agreed to lift Callaham’s house arrest but did not remove all of her restrictions. She must continue wearing her GPS monitor, and designated “red zones” where she is prohibited from going remain in place.
Criminal Defense Attorney Weighs In On The Case
Criminal defense attorney Tyler Bailey has criticized the decision to ease Callaham’s restrictions, arguing that becoming a parent should not influence how a defendant’s case is assessed.
Bailey explained that while the arrival of a newborn may make a defendant appear more sympathetic to some people, it should have no bearing on whether that person is ultimately found guilty or not guilty.
He also suggested that Strickland’s willingness to speak publicly about the case and attend court hearings could complicate the defense’s approach.
According to Bailey, the charges filed in Anderson and Greenville counties could also proceed separately, as each jurisdiction has its own prosecution.
Why The Case Has Yet To Go To Trial
The legal proceedings have not yet reached trial, and Callaham’s recent childbirth and postpartum recovery may be among the factors affecting the timeline.
Bailey noted that the defense could seek to challenge Strickland’s credibility and point to potential inconsistencies in his statements as the case moves forward.
Such challenges are part of the legal process, and the allegations have not yet been established at trial.
Meanwhile, Strickland’s family has also pursued legal action outside the criminal case. They have filed a civil lawsuit against the school district, the theater organization and a boarding school, alleging failures to protect him.
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