Our History
Founded in 2024 by John Rice, Jessie Wimmer, and Dr. Vonda Rogers—dedicated educators, public health advocates, and civil servants—Maverick Leadership Academy was created to bridge the gaps in traditional education.
Rooted in the belief that every student deserves a whole-person approach to learning, Maverick offers a strengths-based, research-driven curriculum that equips students with the skills, tools, and resources needed to succeed. Through collaboration, guidance, and a focus on both academic excellence and social-emotional growth, we empower students to thrive in school, in life, and as future leaders.
MEET OUR TEAM
WELCOME, WE CAN’T WAIT TO MEET YOU!
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Dr. Vonda Rogers
Executive Director of Curriculum Development and Instruction, Administrator and Co-Founder
Dr. Vonda K. Rogers is a highly motivated professional with over 30 years combined experience as a chemist and seasoned educator. Her expertise lies at the intersection of scientific innovation and educational leadership. As the Department Chair for the Math and Science Curriculum Development team, she champions the integration of STEM-based pedagogies and social-emotional learning within her professional learning community. Her passion drives initiatives that implement effective behavioral and academic interventions while addressing the emotional well-being of students. Outside of her professional achievements, Dr. Rogers cherishes time with her husband, Dr. Timothy Rogers, SR, and three adult children, Zenetric, Timothy JR, Elizabeth, and daughter-in-law Qhawekazi and granddaughter Vonda Amahle, who inspires her to lead with purpose for the next generation.
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Jessie Wimmer
Executive Director of Counseling Services, Administrator and Co-Founder
Jessie Wimmer is a passionate educator and advocate for young people. With an undergrad degree from UNCC in Education, Jessie is also currently pursuing her Masters in social work, to obtain her LCSW. Jessie is committed to lifelong education to continue her own quest as a Maverick. Advocacy, inclusion and empathy guide Jessie in her pursuit to revolutionize the antiquated, traditional approaches society has long used when working with kids. She aspires to show honor, respect, care and humility with every student and family she works with. Having spent 17 years as a classroom teacher in various private and public schools throughout the metro Charlotte area, Jessie learned that young people respond best when they feel seen, heard, validated and cared for. Jessie is a Mother of two teens, and in her free time she enjoys time with her kids, going to the beach, swimming, hiking, going to concerts, thrift shopping and playing with her 2 cats and 2 dogs.
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John Rice
Executive Director of Student Services, Administrator and Co-Founder
John (Coach) Rice, is honored to serve the educational needs of our community. John is originally from Lincolnton, North Carolina, and has lived in the Charlotte area for over twenty years. He received his undergraduate degree from Fayetteville State University. Coach Rice began his career working in juvenile justice, and mental health before transitioning to education. He has served as a teacher at McAdenville Elementary School, Bessemer City High School, Gaston Day, and as Dean of Students at Emerald School of Excellence.
Outside of school, John’s life revolves around family. You’ll find him on the weekends playing sports, bike riding, spending time with his wife and kids. He also enjoys grilling, cheering on his NC State Wolfpack and Washington Commanders, and traveling. One of John’s other greatest passions is serving as a football coach for the Stuart Cramer Storm.
Board of Advisors
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Charles V. Beyer II, MAI, SRA, AI-GRS – Owner, C. Beyer Associates
Dr. Marie Brown Mercadel – Author, Coach, Motivational Speaker
Billy McCarty MD MBA – President, Gatorcare Health Management Corporation
DeWana McCarty, MBA – Public Service Advocate
Dakeita Staton M.Ed., LCMHC-A, LCAS-A – Family and Alumni Coordinator
Dr. Lisa Cox Romain, PhD, LMFT, LPCC, NCC, SAP, RYT – Cox Romain Psychological Services, LLC
Christopher Lacy-Thompson, EdD – Continuous Improvement and Data Integration Specialist
Ed Resnick, Ph.D Project Director III, LACOE PBIS CA PBIS Core Leadership Team
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Elizabeth Rogers, M.A. – Project Manager, Equity-Centered Organizational Strategist
Kenneth R. Francis – Sales Center Manager/Business Owner
Kim M. Yarboro (Retired) – United States Department of Defense and the United States Marine Corps, Deputy Program Manager and Assistant Deputy Commander
Mary E. Francis – Business Owner
Dr. Timothy T. Rogers, Sr (Retired) – Department of Defense, IT Program Manager/Cyber Security Director
Rhonda Copeland Lyle – Department of Defense (Retired), CEO, The Scholarship Strategist and Author
Erin Rice, MS, LCMHCS, EMDR Certified, CIT, E Rice & Associates, LLC
Our Community Partners
Our Location
10624 Metromont Pkwy
Charlotte, NC 28269
Hours
Monday–Friday
8:30 am–3:30 pm
Phone
(803) 619-9591
Contact us
Interested in working together? Fill out some info and we will be in touch shortly. We can’t wait to hear from you!