CTC Academy Hosts “Intro to PODD” Training to Strengthen Student Communication

Oakland, NJ – November 12, 2025 — The two-day “Intro to PODD” (Pragmatic Organization Dynamic Display) training, held November 11–12 at CTC Academy’s Oakland campus, was led by Kelly Fonner, a nationally recognized consultant and trainer specializing in assistive technology and augmentative communication. Teachers and therapists from both CTC campuses participated, and registration was opened to the wider community, allowing local professionals to join as well. Participants gained
hands-on experience and practical strategies to help students communicate more fully and naturally.

“Our students have so much to say, and it’s wonderful to hear them communicate through PODD and other communication systems,” said Cara Rogerino, CTC Academy Oakland Principal. “This training gave us meaningful strategies to better support students’ diverse communication modalities and to ensure their voices are heard consistently—across classrooms, therapy sessions, and leisure activities.”

The teachers and therapists who participated shared that the training provided valuable insights and renewed energy for continuing to foster communication for all students.

About the Presenter

Kelly Fonner is an independent consultant with over 35 years of experience in assistive and educational technology. She has trained schools, universities, and families across 48 states and internationally in Australia, Canada, and South Africa. Kelly holds a B.S. in Special Education from Millersville University, an M.S. in Educational Technology from Johns Hopkins University, and an Assistive Technology Applications Certificate from California State University, Northridge. Her expertise spans classroom instruction, statewide technology initiatives, and professional training for educators and therapists worldwide.

Why Use PODD?

PODD provides a structured yet flexible framework for individuals with complex communication needs. It allows users to share greetings, make requests, ask questions, offer opinions, and express feelings—while helping them better understand others. The system is available in both paper and electronic formats and supports access through pointing, scanning, or eye gaze.

“Using PODD has opened up a world of communication for our students. They have so much to say, and it’s a joy to hear! The main goal of PODD is to give someone with complex communication needs a way to share real, natural messages anytime, anywhere, and with anyone. I’m so grateful that CTC gets the
chance to host such a well-known and respected speaker on this topic,” said Angela Eastlake, Speech Therapy Department Head.

At its core, PODD encourages the use of Aided Language Input, where communication partners model how to use the system while speaking, helping users build language naturally in real-life situations.

PODD at CTC Academy

CTC Academy’s journey with PODD began six years ago when a group of therapists attended a five-day workshop and returned inspired to implement it in classrooms.

Who We Are

CTC Academy is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization that provides educational and therapeutic services for students with a diverse array of developmental disabilities through our collaborative educational program and support services for students and families.

We first opened our doors as the Cerebral Palsy Center of Bergen County, NJ, on March 29, 1950. We began as a Center for children with Cerebral Palsy but over the past 70 years we have evolved into an innovative education institution that provides creative education and advanced therapies to students with many different types of disabilities – students who face physical, medical and developmental challenges. Now we offer two schools and follow the school continuum from Preschool through age 21 as well as Early Enrichment for children ages 18 months through 3 years. Our Fair Lawn campus offers Early Enrichment, a State-Approved Preschool, and a K-2 Program, while the Oakland campus provides a State-Approved Grades 2-12 and a Transition Program for students ages 18-21 and beyond.

Our Mission

Enhancing the lives of children and young adults with special needs, and their families, by providing an enriched educational, therapeutic and supportive environment.

Our Vision

Fulfilling the potential of all people with special needs.

Media Contact:
Laura Reynolds
Development Coordinator, CTC Academy
lreynolds@ctcacademy.org (201) 797-7440
www.ctcacademy.org