HOGAN LEARNING ACADEMY About Us
Family-Owned Excellence on a 10+ Acre Private Campus
- Evidence: We implement proven, evidence-based strategies focused on skill-building and reducing challenging behaviors. Every educational approach is backed by data and tailored to the individual.
- Environment: Our massive 10+ acre setting is structured to encourage social interaction and sensory regulation. It provides a safe, least restrictive environment where students can master vocational and life skills starting at age 14.
- Execution: Our team-based approach brings together professionals to align on goals, ensuring that the high-quality education we provide is executed with precision and daily communication with families.
Our Team
CEO
James R. Hogan
CEO
In 2013, James R. Hogan opened the doors to Hogan Learning Academy. After years of experience in the field of special education, implementing principles of Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) across varying roles, Jim had a strong desire to follow his passion and develop a high-quality ABA based special education program of his own.
Jim obtained his undergraduate degree from Bloomsburg University, where he also competed four years as a division 1 wrestler. In 2003 he obtained his Master of Arts in Education from Monmouth University and later completed the post graduate BCBA coursework through Penn State University.
Jim enjoys spending time with his wife Misty and their four children: J.T., Tucker, Sophia, and Bailey. As a family they love the Jersey shore, sports, music, and holidays. Additionally, Jim has an interest in exploring classic muscle cars and golfing. Jim is actively involved in the community as a volunteer at high school and youth sporting events, as well as the head wrestling coach at Daniel Boone Highschool. Jim is native to Brick Township, NJ, where he was an accomplished high school wrestler and football player. Between sports he worked with his father at their family-owned tire recycling business.
Through his experiences Jim recognized a few core values that he stands by; be a good person, follow your passion, work with integrity and everything else will follow.
“We don’t need to be the biggest just need to be the best.”
Title
Misty Hogan
title
Misty Hogan Bio here.
Director of Operations
Crystal Smulley
Director of Operations
Crystal Smulley has been part of Hogan Learning Academy since its opening, contributing her expertise in Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) to support students’ growth across academic, social, and behavioral domains. She holds a Master of Arts in Applied Behavior Analysis and is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and Licensed Behavior Specialist (LBS) in Pennsylvania.
Crystal is also a Level 6 Credentialed Supervisor in Practical Functional Assessment (PFA) and Skills-Based Treatment (SBT), specializing in the use of compassionate, evidence-based approaches to reduce challenging behavior and build meaningful life skills. With over 20 years of experience in behavior analysis, she has provided clinical oversight, staff training, and program development to HLA. Her work emphasizes individualized instruction, collaboration with families, and the creation of supportive learning environments that promote lasting success for every student.
Education Director
Trista Wood
Education Director
Trista Wood has worked in both public and private education since 2008, gaining extensive experience in Applied Behavior Analysis. She holds Pennsylvania certifications in Early Childhood, Elementary, and Special Education (N–12). In 2013, she earned her master’s degree in special education and continued her professional development to become a Certified QBS Safety-Care Trainer, as well as a Pennsylvania Licensed Behavior Specialist.
Trista joined Hogan Learning Academy in 2013 as a special education teacher. After many rewarding years working in autistic support classrooms, she transitioned into leadership roles and now serves as the Education Director. She is devoted to fostering compassionate learning environments and implementing evidence-based strategies that support students with autism and intellectual disabilities to thrive.
Outside of school, Trista enjoys spending time with her loved ones, reading, being outdoors, and traveling. She’s passionate about wellness and enjoys staying active through walking her dogs, yoga, and other forms of exercise that promote both physical and mental balance. Trista is also a devoted Philadelphia sports fan and loves cheering on her favorite teams. Trista strives to bring the same energy and positivity she values in life to her work at Hogan Learning Academy.
Join our family, your career starts here!
Hogan Learning Academy is seeking applicants for the following positions: Special Education Teacher (PDE Certified), and Behavior Technician