LCA LEADERSHIP AND STAFF

Dr. Cheryl Cavanaugh and her husband Jody are the founders of Liberty Christian Academy and New Beginnings Child Care Centers. Dr. Cavanaugh earned a Bachelors in English Language Arts from Meredith College, a Masters of Education in Administration and Supervision from Liberty University, and her Educational Doctorate from Liberty University.  Dr. Cavanaugh has worked in the education field for over 20 years. She serves LCA as Head of School, ensuring the vision of the school is administered in all aspects. Dr. Cavanaugh has served her community on local boards, and she is currently serving on a state level as a Board Member of the NC Partnership for Children. She enjoys traveling, reading, singing, and spending time with family. She is the wife of Jody Cavanaugh, and the mother of four children: Landon, Logan, Luke, and Lexi Cavanaugh.

Mrs. Marshburn was born and raised in Richlands, North Carolina. She graduated from Richlands High School in 2003. After graduating high school, Mrs. Marshburn attended University of North Carolina Wilmington earning her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education. She earned a Master's of Educational Leadership from Bob Jones University. Mrs. Marshburn has been with Liberty Christian Academy for nine years. She serves as the Kindergarten through Eighth Grade Principal. She loves singing at her church. 

Mrs. Warren has been driven by a passion for education simce the age of five. In 2005 she earned a BA in English with a Minor in General Science from East Carolina University. Although she initially considered pursuing a law degree, she was reminded of my childhood dream to become an educator. Thus, in 2005, Mrs. Warren embarked on her journey as a teacher in North Carolina. Starting with middle school language arts and science, and later transitioning to high school science and English, her dedication to education deepened.
In 2016, she pursued my goal of becoming an administrator and obtained a Masters in School Administration from her alma mater, East Carolina University. Over the next four years (2018-2022), I served as an assistant principal in Onslow County Schools before assuming the role of principal from 2022 to 2024, overseeing elementary, middle, and high school levels.

Ms. Tieman was born in Duplin County, NC and graduated from James Kenan High School in Warsaw, NC. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a concentration in Linguistics and Technical Writing from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington where she was a member of Alpha Delta Pi sorority and Campus Crusade for Christ (CRU). Ms. Tieman earned her Master's Degree from Liberty University.
After living many years in Garner, she has returned home to Duplin County where she attends Pathway Church with her husband of eighteen years, Shane. Together they have three children, each of whom are students at LCA. In her free time, Ms.Tieman enjoys traveling to new places and fantastic dining experiences.  Her favorite person in the Bible is King David, because while he was flawed and very human, he had a heart for Jesus. Her favorite two Bible verses are Romans 8:38-39 and Proverbs 23: 6.

Mrs. Taylor grew up in northern California but has lived most of her adult life in Onslow county.  She and her husband, Dennis, currently live in Kinston. They have a beautiful blended family of 5 children, 3 married with wonderful spouses. Mrs. Taylors pride and joy are her beautiful grandchildren. Mrs. Taylor feels blessed in all that the Lord does for her daily. He has turned her ashes into beauty in the way only God does.

Mrs. King was raised in Duplin County, NC.  Upon graduating East Duplin High School, she earned a Bachelor of Music at Meredith College followed by a Master of School Administration at UNC-Wilmington.  After 13 years of pursuing an educational career as a teacher and administrator, she felt God calling her to be a full-time mother in order to train up her own children and develop a strong spiritual foundation in their earliest years.  Once her children entered school, she began working part-time as a preschool teacher and then an interventionist for elementary students. She is now happy to serve at LCA where she counts it all joy to be a part of this wonderful school where Christ is glorified and His Word is taught daily.  Mrs. King is a member of Sandy Plain Original Free Will Baptist Church in Pink Hill, NC where she is actively involved in the music ministry.  She has been happily married to her husband Darryl for 30 years. They have two children, Evan (LCA alum) and Meredith, who is a student  at LCA.  

Mrs. Willaford is LCA’s Curriculum and Instruction Specialist, responsible for managing classroom curricula and resources, organizing professional development opportunities, and supporting teachers in their professional growth. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) and is pursuing a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Liberty University. Mrs. Willaford has served in public and private school education for 14 years. Christian education is where she feels her purpose and passion intersect.
In addition to her professional role, Adrienne is a pastor's wife, a mother of three children, and a foster mom, balancing her work and family life with grace and commitment. She has a deep love for God’s Word, the beach, dark chocolate, and enjoys meaningful conversations with friends and a cup of coffee in hand.

Mrs. Bland was born and raised in Maryland. She graduated with a bachelors degree in early childhood education and a masters degree in Learning Disabilities from Francis Marion University. Mrs. Tarkenton taught 1st grade and 3rd Grade special education in Florence, South Carolina. She is the girls head soccer coach and the boys head soccer coach. She loves sports and spending time with her three children. Her favorite verse is Philippians 4:6-7.

Mr. Richmond is married to Mrs. Kelly Richmond. They have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. He earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies from Liberty University and his Masters in Sports Management/Coaching and Athletic Administration from Liberty University, as well. Mr. Richmond retired from the Marine Corps in 2014 after a 20 year career and is an Associate Pastor at Love, Grace and Mercy Church in Richlands, NC. In addition to serving as the Athletic Director, he is the Head Football Coach and the Varsity Women’s Basketball Coach. Coach Richmond and his wife also serve on the Coastal NC FCA (Fellowship of Christian Athletes) Board. Mr. Richmond has a calling for young people and has a desire to see this generation have a Christ-driven life in academics and athletics. 

Mr. Summerlin is honored to serve as the Campus Safety Director at Liberty Christian Academy. His career reflects a strong commitment to service, law enforcement, and ministry. He spent nine years with the Jacksonville Police Department, serving as a patrol officer, criminal intelligence officer, investigator, and SWAT team member while earning a Bachelor’s in History and a Master’s in Christian Apologetics from Liberty University.
Following a calling to ministry, he became the youth pastor at Pathway Church in Beulaville and later worked as a History teacher in the public school system. In 2020, he joined LCA to teach History and Bible while contributing to campus safety initiatives, eventually transitioning full-time to developing security policies for the school’s growing community.
Outside of work, he enjoys time with his wife, Suzie, and their two children. A passionate reader, he finds inspiration in the works of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien. He is grateful for the opportunity to serve LCA and ensure a safe learning environment for students and staff.

Mrs. Ginnie Postlethwaite feels so blessed to have been called to be a part of the LCA family. God has been so faithful to guide her and direct her in the way she should go (Prov. 3:5-6) and continues to impress upon her to be God-honoring in all she does. Mrs. Postlethwaite has earned a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and a certification in the field of Academically or Intellectually Gifted (AIG) from UNC Wilmington. She is currently working on a Master’s degree in AIG from UNC Wilmington. Mrs. Postlethwaite has worked in education as a general education teacher for over 22 years and enjoys traveling, running, knitting, crocheting, and spending time with her family. She is the wife of Rick Postlethwaite, the mother of Richard and his wife Rebecca and Ryan and his wife Gabrielle, and the Grammy of 6 precious grandbabies: Kalani, Kalia, Felicity, Koa, Lear and Kaimana.

I am so thankful for God’s vision and His plan that has brought me to where I am today, serving and caring for others in many ways. Without God, none of this would have been possible. I am married to the love of my life, Randy Riggs and we have 3 beautiful children together. Both of our daughters have graduated from Liberty Christian Academy and our son currently attends Liberty. We are owners of Riggs Brothers Farm and Sand Ridge Farms.  We tend over 10,000 acres and run a Hog Farm, which I have been doing the books for now for over 27 years. This drives my passion for numbers and finance. I also love serving and taking care of others.  I started my journey as a Nursing Assistant at 19 years old and then graduated from Craven Community College in 2000 with an Associates Degree in Applied Science to become a Registered Nurse. I have been a Registered Nurse since May of 2000. After continuing my education, I  completed my Bachelors in Nursing at Liberty University in 2021. In my spare time, I love to read, workout and spend all the time I can with my family. My family and I are members at Kellum Baptist church where I grew up attending.  I pray each day that my love for Christ shines in all I do for him as I serve all the parents and children at Liberty Christian Academy. I am blessed daily by them. I am excited to see where this year leads.  1 Peter 4:10-11 “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ”.

Landen Langston is the Director of IT and is the Journalism teacher at LCA. In his first year at the school, he has quickly grown to love the welcoming community and Christ-centered environment.  He values the opportunity to serve in a place where faith and family are at the heart of everything. He is grateful to be surrounded daily by both his family and the love of Jesus. Outside of work, Mr. Langston enjoys cooking for his friends and family, fostering connection and creativity in and out of the classroom. His dedication to education and technology helps equip students with the skills they need to succeed in a rapidly evolving world.

Lilly Wooten is a resident from Beulaville, North Carolina. She graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington with a Bachelor of Arts, where she studied Psychology and Applied Behavior Analysis with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities. She plans to study at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary in the spring. Wooten serves as LCA's Christian Life Director and has a burning passion for missions, people, and the Word of God. She has participated in both domestic and international mission trips. Her heart is to see her students succeed, be challenged, and encouraged in their faith.

Ciarra Kennedy graduated from the University of North Carolina Wilmington in December of 2022 with a Bachelor in Arts, majoring in Communication Studies and a minor in Business. She is driven by a deep passion for working in collaborative environments, where like-minded individuals come together to achieve common goals. Currently, Ciarra is using her education to serve as a vital team member at LCA. Here, she utilizes her communication skills to help LCA effectively convey its mission and values to the surrounding communities. Ciarra's commitment to facilitating genuine and transparent communication aligns seamlessly with LCA's mission to connect with and positively impact the people it serves.

Mrs. Brittany Bass is in her third year teaching Kindergarten at LCA. She earned a Bachelor’s degree in Communication from East Carolina University and is currently pursuing a Master of Education from Liberty University. She married her high school sweetheart, Andrew and they have one daughter, Rowan. Mrs. Bass feels called to teach children about Jesus and is honored to live out that calling at LCA. Mrs. Bass, and her family, attend Lighthouse Family Worship Center, where she teaches Sunday school. She loves to spend time with her family, read and craft. 

Julianna Holley is in her second year teaching kindergarten at LCA, where she is dedicated to creating a welcoming and engaging classroom environment for her students. With a degree in Early Childhood Education from Mount Olive College, Julianna is passionate about nurturing young minds and providing a strong academic and social-emotional foundation for her students. She believes in fostering a love for learning and helping children develop their curiosity and creativity.
Outside of teaching, Julianna is a proud dog mom to two fur babies, Andy and Callie. She’s also happily married to her high school sweetheart. Julianna looks forward to another year of watching her students grow and thrive in a supportive and fun learning environment!

Mrs. Bletner grew up in Chinquapin, NC. She graduated from the University of North Carolina at Pembroke with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Criminal Justice. She is very thankful for the path that God put her on to bring her to LCA. Before coming to LCA, she worked in early childhood for 5 years. Mrs. Bletner believes every child needs to feel loved in every aspect of life and by teaching how big God’s love for us is, will therefore, teach children how much they are truly loved. She enjoys reading, baking, and spending time with family during her time away from teaching young minds, as well as spending time at the beach. She is looking forward to seeing all of the awesome plans that God has in store for her and her students this year! 

Mrs. Lisa Mosher earned an associate in arts degree in elementary education. She then became a preschool teacher for 7 years. Mrs. Mosher went back to school and earned a Bachelors in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Wilmington; Mrs. Mosher has worked in the education field for 29 years.   Mrs. Lisa Mosher and her husband Carl Mosher attend Tar Landing Baptist church where he is deacon of the church. She is the mother of two children: Stacey and Brooke and a grandma to her four-year-old grandson Miles.  Mrs. Lisa Mosher enjoys spending time with family and friends. 

Mrs. Langston is in her first year as a first-grade teacher at Liberty Christian Academy. She is currently pursuing her bachelor’s degree in education at Johnston Community College. She is dedicated to creating a nurturing and faith-centered classroom environment. Tangie is married to her husband, Michael, and together they have two sons, Logan and Landen. They are also proud grandparents to two grandsons, John and James. In addition to teaching, Tangie serves as the piano player and praise and worship leader at her church in Four Oaks, North Carolina. In her free time, she enjoys singing, spending time with her family, traveling to Disney World, going on cruises, and loving on her grandbabies. 

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Mrs. Cahoon is originally from Raleigh, NC. She attended Meredith College and received a degree in Early Childhood Education with a K-6 teaching certification. She taught in both Johnston County and Onslow County before retiring in 2022. She and her husband have 6 children and 7 grandchildren with 1 on the way. She loves to travel and spend time with her family. They are both active members of Blue Creek Baptist Church serving in various capacities within the church. This is Mrs. Cahoon's second year with Liberty Christian Academy. She worked with the LEEP program last year and is currently a first grade teacher. Mrs. Cahoon feels so blessed to be here at Liberty and is excited to see where the Lord will lead her next. 

Mrs. Appleyard is originally from Troy, Pennsylvania, but has lived in the south for more than 30 years.  She received her Bachelor's of Education degree from Mansfield University in PA.  Then she went back and got her Master's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina - Wilmington.  She taught in the Jones County and Onslow County school districts for 34 years and then retired. After 2 years of retirement she decided that it was time to come back to teaching.  She and her husband attend church at First Christian Church, and they live in Richlands.   She also has 3 wonderful sons and an amazing daughter-in-law.  When she is not teaching, she enjoys spending time with her family at the lake. 

Mrs. Tina Houston teaches 3rd grade at Liberty Christian Academy. Mrs. Houston earned her Bachelors of Arts in Elementary Studies Elementary Education from Western Governors University. This is her 7th year at LCA and her second year as a classroom teacher. She loves working at LCA and is excited to watch as her students learn and grow, not only in their academics but in their relationship with Jesus. Mrs. Houston is a native of Richlands, NC. She is married to her high school sweetheart, Jesse, and has two children, Landon and Luke. She currently attends Richlands Free Will Baptist Church of Richlands and is excited for what the Lord has in store for her.  

Mrs. Schultz is originally from Kerman, California. She met her husband Jeremiah while he was stationed at Naval Air Station Pendleton. Together they have 5 children, Sheridon, Hunter, Wyatt, Huck, and Remington. She has taught 4th grade for two years, and is currently teaching 5th Grade. Mrs. Schultz graduated with her Bachelors in Elementary Education Interdisciplinary Studies with a minor in Military History from Liberty University. She then went on to earn her teaching license from ECU. 

Mrs. Kristy Batchelor was born in Billings, Montana, but was raised in Richlands, NC most of her childhood. She married her best friend, John Mark, and now resides in Back Swamp with him and their two daughters, Mackenzie and Madison. She is the Missions Ministry leader at Back Swamp Community Church, as well as serving in other various ways within the church. Mrs. Batchelor has worked with children of all ages for 11 years, in both public and private Christian school settings. She is passionate about helping students come to know Christ, while also playing a vital role in their education. She feels so blessed that the Lord led her to LCA and cannot wait to see what He has in store!

Mrs. Glatz is married to Dr. Robert Glatz, M.D. They have five children, one grandson, and many fur friends. Her motto in life:  "Knowledge is Power." Thus, she is dedicated to improving the academic experiences of families and their scholars. She has been a lifelong learner with an Associate Degree in English, History, and Math, a Bachelor's in Communication and English (Dallas Baptist University), a Master's in the Art of Teaching (TEA Licensed), a Master's in Reading/ESL (DBU), and Trained in Language Therapy for Dyslexia (MTA and Scottish Rite Programs). God's grace fuels me, and I am in constant amazement that HE guides me in a job I love and teaches children for HIS glory. 

Mrs. Cohen was born and raised in Maryland. She and her husband have three children and seven amazing grandchildren. She started working at LCA as a substitute, later joined the Leep Department, and now teaches 6th grade Bible, Math, and Science. Mrs. Cohen loves helping students excel in their schoolwork, but more importantly, she wants to share the gospel with them and make sure they know they are loved. In addition to teaching, she enjoys building strong relationships with her students, encouraging them to grow in both their faith and academic abilities. When she’s not in the classroom, Mrs. Cohen loves spending time with her family, especially her grandchildren, and engaging in outdoor activities.

Ms. Robinson is a resident from Deep Run, North Carolina. She graduated from Liberty University with a Bachelor of Science, where she studied Psychology with a focus in Christian Counseling. She is currently working on her Masters in School Counseling through Liberty University. Robinson serves as a 6th grade ELA, History, and Bible teacher and has a huge heart for learning, spiritual growth, service and the Bible. She has been in the classroom for 4 years and has served in children's ministry for 9 years. Her heart is to see students grow not only academically but also mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Mrs. Hearn grew up in North Augusta, South Carolina.  She graduated from UNCW with a BA in Elementary Education. This is her 9th year teaching at LCA.  Mrs. Hearn is happily married to her husband Ryan and they have two kids that attend LCA. Mrs. Hearn and her family attend Brookwood Baptist Church in Jacksonville, NC and they love living in eastern North Carolina.
Christian education provides the incredible opportunity to incorporate the word of God into every lesson and it is a blessing seeing students learn and grow.

Mrs. Martin is a resident of Surf City, North Carolina. She earned her Master’s degree in Physiology from North Carolina State University. Kaitlyn teaches 7th and 8th grade Bible, covering both the Old and New Testaments. Her passion is to see students develop a personal relationship with Jesus and grow in their love for Him as they deepen their understanding of Scripture.

Mr. Trent Marshburn, an Onslow native, will start his journey at LCA as the junior high history teacher. He earned his Bachelor of Arts in History and a minor in Theatre from UNC-Wilmington. He began his teaching career at  Dixon Middle School in Sneads Ferry where he taught 6th grade social studies for three years, and Theatre Arts for one year. He enjoys exploring eastern North Carolinian history, visiting flea markets and antique shops, and participating in theatrical arts with The Seeing Place (formally Legacy) in Jacksonville. He looks forward to continuing his teaching career at LCA.

Mrs. Martin is a retired teacher from Georgia and has worked in the education field for over 30 years. She feels blessed to have an occupation that she loves and has given her so many wonderful memories! She has a Bachelor of Science in Middle School Math and a Masters in Special Education from North Georgia University. Mrs. Martin also earned a Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction.  She serves LCA as a Math and Pre Algebra teacher for grades 7 and 8. Mrs. Martin became a widow in 2023.  She credits her faith, her family and her LCA family for the support to navigate her new path without her husband. She and her husband moved from Georgia to North Carolina 6 years ago to stay close to their only daughter and two grandchildren. 

Mrs. E brings a heart for family, education, and community to Liberty Christian Academy. Married to Richard for 28 years, she is a proud parent of two children, Anthony and Amber, and a loving grandparent to her cherished granddaughter, Coletta Marie. She was born in Japan as a military child and has lived in diverse locations like Hawaii and Washington, D.C. She previously coached volleyball at LCA and in Jacksonville's recreational leagues. Now, she enjoys her role as a High School Math teacher and afternoon dismissal lead where she connects with parents and students. She loves spending time with family, cheering on her Clemson Tigers, and gardening. She is excited to see God's plan unfold for the LCA High School.

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Laura Brossman is a dedicated educator with a diverse background spanning 20 years of service in the U.S. Marine Corps. As a Personnel Administrator, she handled complex records, finances, and worked closely with other government agencies. She also supported deployments, served as an analyst shaping resources and policy, and contributed to a crisis response team during COVID-19. After retiring, she transitioned to teaching Spanish, Leadership, and Global Studies at Liberty Christian Academy. Passionate about fostering growth and leadership in her students, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her military experience. Outside the classroom, she
enjoys spending time with her husband and ever-growing family.

Mrs. Padgett and her husband, Andrew, grew up in Carteret County but have been in Jacksonville since 2014. They have one daughter, Ellie Kate. Mrs. Padgett enjoys spending time with her family and friends, traveling and enjoying new places, all things Boston, and eating good food. She graduated from NC State University with a Bachelor's Degree in Middle School Math Education. She is currently pursuing her Master's in Counseling at Dallas Theological Seminary. Mrs. Padgett has truly seen God do more than they could have ever asked or imagined as they have journeyed with Jesus. She is excited to be a part of the LCA family and expectant for all that God will do throughout the Heat Family.

Mrs. Sumner graduated from the University of Mount Olive earning a Bachelor of Science in History, Bachelor of Science in Art, and a Minor in Psychology. Mrs. Sumner has taught for twelve years with seven years being at LCA. Mrs. Sumner is currently teaching high school Art and College Career Readiness. Mrs. Sumner coaches girls basketball and softball at LCA. She is the wife of Jody Sumner and they have been blessed with four amazing daughters. 

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Mrs. Bell is a native of Jacksonville, North Carolina. She has built a fulfilling career as a cosmetologist over the last 20 years. She has since joined the LCA staff as a LEEP interventionist where she supports students in their educational growth. Robin is happily married and a devoted mother to two wonderful children who also attend LCA. 

Mrs.  Beyl was born and raised in Rome, Georgia. Mrs. Beyl moved to Jacksonville in 2009 and later worked in Family Ministry at a local church for 6 years. Her passion for students and love of the Lord brought Mrs. Beyl to her current position at LCA. She enjoys being outdoors, traveling, but most of all spending time with her husband Chris and their five kids Graceyn, Addisyn, Mason, Austin, and Charlotte!

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