Admissions Process
STEP 1 -Initial Inquiry
Families attend a Maverick Learning Center Open House or schedule an individual tour to learn more about our program, services, and enrollment process. This step allows families to ask general questions, meet our teachers, and determine whether Maverick may be an appropriate option to explore further
STEP 2 - Complete & Submit Admission Materials
Families will complete the online application in TADS, including submitting relevant supplemental documents and providing a teacher email address so we may send a questionnaire directly to the school. The information collected allows us to gain a comprehensive understanding of the student’s background, learning profile, communication and behavioral needs, and overall support needs prior to determining next steps.
*** Documents must be uploaded before an interview is scheduled. Please read our FAQ's about behaviors that cannot be accommodated at MLC
STEP 3 - Records Review
Our team reviews submitted materials such as educational history, evaluations, IEPs/504 plans, therapy information, and questionnaire responses. This review helps us assess whether our environment, instructional approach, and staffing structure align with the student’s needs and the family’s goals prior to moving forward.
STEP 4 - Family Meeting & Student Interview
Families will be invited to participate in a meeting with an administrator and the student’s potential teacher. This conversation allows for clarification, deeper discussion, and an opportunity for families to share additional context, goals, or concerns that may not be captured in written materials.
STEP 5 - Student Trial
The student may be invited to participate in a multi-day trial at Maverick Learning Center. Drop-off is available between 8:30–9:00 a.m., and pick-up between 2:30–3:00 p.m. If a safety or significant behavioral concern arises, families will be contacted and asked to be available to pick up the student within 30 minutes. Families should send a water bottle and lunch each day. Microwaves are available for hot lunches.
During the trial, the student will experience a typical day in the potential classroom, including daily routines, peer interactions, and instructional activities. This allows the admissions team to observe how the student engages in a learning environment and how the Maverick Learning Center setting may support the student’s needs.
Throughout the trial, the prospective classroom teacher will complete a Skills for Success Checklist, which outlines developmentally appropriate end-of-year goals for students in that classroom. These skills are embedded naturally within daily routines and are designed to support learning, independence, and peer relationships. While students are not expected to demonstrate mastery of every skill, the checklist serves as a framework for identifying strengths, support needs, and instructional priorities. Accommodations and modifications are provided as needed, with the goal of fostering increasing independence over time.
The information gathered helps guide admissions decisions and, if needed, provides families with a clear reference of skills and areas to focus on if admission is not granted at this time and the family chooses to reapply in the future.
STEP 6 - Admissions Decision
At the conclusion of the student trial, families are asked to arrive at Maverick Learning Center at 2:15 p.m. to meet with an administrator and the student’s prospective teacher to discuss observations and next steps. If families are asked to pick up the student prior to the conclusion of the second trial day, an alternative meeting time will be scheduled to review findings and determine next steps.
*Maverick Learning Center does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, gender, religion, national origin, or sexual orientation.
STEP 7 - Enrollment & Next Steps
If admitted, families receive enrollment materials, submit the enrollment deposit, and are provided with a transition packet and start date information. This step supports a smooth transition, clear communication, and helps set the stage for a positive start at Maverick Learning Center!
MLC Staff
Cahoon Family - Founders
Cahoon Family - Founders
Cahoon Family - Founders
We created MLC out of necessity and quickly realized that we were not alone in the need for an inclusive educational program in Virginia Beach. To open MLC, we had many meetings and conversations with educators, administrators, therapy providers, and parents to make sure that MLC is as close to perfect as we can make it. We are born and
We created MLC out of necessity and quickly realized that we were not alone in the need for an inclusive educational program in Virginia Beach. To open MLC, we had many meetings and conversations with educators, administrators, therapy providers, and parents to make sure that MLC is as close to perfect as we can make it. We are born and raised Virginia Beach locals and it feels great to give back to a community we love.
Josh runs the restoration and construction division of Coastal Chimney & Contracting. Maegan graduated from University of North Florida and has her investment advisors license. Josh and Maegan Cahoon have three boys, Gavin (20), Jax (13), and Maverick (11).
Amanda Sacco
Cahoon Family - Founders
Cahoon Family - Founders
Hello! My name is Amanda Sacco and I am the Teacher Supervisor at Maverick Learning Center. I am an ODU Alumni and have been working as an Elementary Special Education Teacher locally the past 5 years. I am originally from upstate New York and moved to Virginia Beach about 16 years ago. My fiancé and I have 2 beautiful children Corbin and
Hello! My name is Amanda Sacco and I am the Teacher Supervisor at Maverick Learning Center. I am an ODU Alumni and have been working as an Elementary Special Education Teacher locally the past 5 years. I am originally from upstate New York and moved to Virginia Beach about 16 years ago. My fiancé and I have 2 beautiful children Corbin and Kenslee who are 14 and 10 years old.
I knew from a young age I wanted to be a teacher, my mom is now a retired Special Education Teacher and somehow I knew it was my calling. When my son was 1 year old, he started Early Intervention Services and I think that really began my passion for working with students that have Autism. He was later diagnosed with Autism and is now thriving as he enters 8th grade this upcoming school year. In my free time I enjoy being at the beach, crafting, and spending time with my family.
Sharon Howton
Cahoon Family - Founders
Sharon Howton
I joined the MLC team in January of 2023 and have worked with the Cahoons for several years. My official titles include the Assistant to the Director and Social Media Coordinator but I wear many hats here at MLC! My love for kiddos with Autism started at a young age when my younger brother was diagnosed in 2009. My previous experience
I joined the MLC team in January of 2023 and have worked with the Cahoons for several years. My official titles include the Assistant to the Director and Social Media Coordinator but I wear many hats here at MLC! My love for kiddos with Autism started at a young age when my younger brother was diagnosed in 2009. My previous experience including volunteering, ABA services, CARD, and camp Gonnawannagoagain (to name a few) were all key pieces that molded me into a perfect fit here MLC. I was born and raised in Virginia Beach and truly feel there's no place like home. The last few years I have lived in Florida and focused on my management skills along with gaining experience. I am an avid LEGO builder and collector.
It's always a great day to be a good day!
MLC Staff
Erin Heath
Alexandra Lomberk
Alexandra Lomberk
Hello ! Welcome to what I know will be an amazing year here at MLC! My name is Erin Heath and although this is my first year at MLC, I have been teaching for over 15 years as a special education teacher. I have been married for 10 years to my wonderful husband Dan and we have been beyond blessed to have our beautiful baby girl Zoe who
Hello ! Welcome to what I know will be an amazing year here at MLC! My name is Erin Heath and although this is my first year at MLC, I have been teaching for over 15 years as a special education teacher. I have been married for 10 years to my wonderful husband Dan and we have been beyond blessed to have our beautiful baby girl Zoe who just turned 4! We also have our sweet fur baby Luna who completes our family. This is my 16th year as a special education teacher. I have a BA in Theatre and Education and a Masters in Special Education K-12. I absolutely LOVE teaching, and helping students reach and exceed their goals! I knew from a young age I wanted to be a teacher and help nurture and guide students in all their areas of needs. Teaching is my passion and I am so excited to continue fostering that love of teaching and learning this school year with my wonderful new students. I cannot wait to get started on this new adventure!
Alexandra Lomberk
Alexandra Lomberk
Alexandra Lomberk
Hey everyone! My name is Alexandra Lomberk, and I am a VB native with a love for the beach, adventure, and traveling with my family. I am married to my awesome husband of almost eight years, and we have two little boys who are six and four. I have a bachelors in therapeutic recreation and a masters in special education, both from Old Dom
Hey everyone! My name is Alexandra Lomberk, and I am a VB native with a love for the beach, adventure, and traveling with my family. I am married to my awesome husband of almost eight years, and we have two little boys who are six and four. I have a bachelors in therapeutic recreation and a masters in special education, both from Old Dominion University. I taught here in VB for the public schools for eight years before taking a year long break, and realizing how much I missed it! I have a deep love and passion for helping kiddos with differing abilities thrive and be the best version of themselves they can be. I’m so excited to join the team here at MLC and can’t wait to work with all of my future students.
Emily Lawson
Emily Lawson
Emily Lawson
Hello! My name is Emily Lawson. This is my first year teaching at MLC but I have been working with children on the Autism spectrum for over 15 years. I hold a duel Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. For the last 4 1/2 years, I have worked a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, serving familie
Hello! My name is Emily Lawson. This is my first year teaching at MLC but I have been working with children on the Autism spectrum for over 15 years. I hold a duel Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education and Early Childhood Special Education. For the last 4 1/2 years, I have worked a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, serving families in the home and I’m thrilled to come back to my love of teaching and apply my experience to help shape a compassionate and warm learning environment for our little ones to thrive. I am a single mom of two amazing girls. Elliott is 11 years old and is starting her first year at Plaza Middle School and Sadie is 8 and is beginning 3rd grade at Alanton Elementary. I know that every new school year is filled with excitement and uncertainty for our little ones but I am sure that we will have an incredible school year.
Nancy Harmon
Emily Lawson
Emily Lawson
Hello! My name is Nancy Harmon, and I’m excited to be joining Maverick Learning Center as the Educational Support Specialist. I have a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Old Dominion University and a master’s degree in Special Education from Regent University. I later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, where I focus on supp
Hello! My name is Nancy Harmon, and I’m excited to be joining Maverick Learning Center as the Educational Support Specialist. I have a bachelor’s degree in Human Services from Old Dominion University and a master’s degree in Special Education from Regent University. I later became a Board Certified Behavior Analyst, where I focus on supporting families and staff through training and collaboration. My passion is helping students with differing abilities thrive by building on their strengths and supporting their growth.
Outside of work, I’m a Virginia Beach native who loves spending time with my three dogs, trying out new recipes, and traveling to new places whenever I can!