Dustin Hellenga
Purcellville
Summary
Behavioral support professional with strong background in helping individuals reach their potential through evidence-based strategies. Proven ability to adapt to dynamic situations and work effectively within team to achieve goals. Recognized for reliability and strong focus on results, ensuring highest standards of student and client care.
Overview
12
12
years of professional experience
Work History
Behavioral Assistant
Loudoun County Public Schools
08.2024 - Current
- Assisted in creating a safe learning environment for all students by addressing potential triggers or challenges they may face.
- Established trust with students by building rapport and maintaining open communication lines with both students and their families.
- Facilitated small group activities focused on developing appropriate social interactions among peers for improved relationships at school.
- Assisted teachers in adapting instructional materials and approaches based on specific student needs for more inclusive learning experiences.
Behavioral Assistant
Loudoun County Public Schools
08.2023 - 06.2024
- Assisted in creating a safe learning environment for all students by addressing potential triggers or challenges they may face.
- Established trust with students by building rapport and maintaining open communication lines with both students and their families.
- Assisted teachers in adapting instructional materials and approaches based on specific student needs for more inclusive learning experiences.
- Aided in the transition between various educational settings, providing continuity of care for students experiencing changes due to internal or external factors such as relocation.
- Reduced instances of negative behaviors in the classroom through consistent reinforcement of positive actions.
Sales & Leasing Coordinator
US Automotive Leasing Services Inc.
03.2015 - 07.2023
- Solved customer challenges by offering relevant products and services.
- Engaged with customers to effectively build rapport and lasting relationships.
- Prepared merchandise for sales floor by pricing or tagging.
- Provided positive first impressions to welcome existing, new, and potential customers.
- Accurately processed POS transactions, returning coin, currency, payment cards, and receipts to customers.
- Engaged with customers to build rapport and loyalty.
- Assessed customer needs and utilized suggestive selling techniques to drive sales.
- Generated new sales leads to achieve and exceed monthly sales goals.
- Maintained current knowledge of evolving changes in marketplace.
- Met with customers to discuss and ascertain needs, tailor solutions and close deals.
- Built diverse and consistent sales portfolio.
- Gained customer trust and confidence by demonstrating compelling, persuasive and composed professional demeanor.
- Built relationships with customers and community to promote long term business growth.
- Quoted prices, credit terms and other bid specifications.
- Fostered lasting relationships with customers through effective communication and quick response, resulting in long-term loyalty and expanded client base.
- Developed, maintained and utilized diverse client base included but not limited to the Federal Government, Military and the Embassy Community across the country.
Admissions Coordinator
Cornerstone University
04.2013 - 02.2015
- Contacted prospective students via email and phone calls.
- Managed admissions processes for incoming students, promptly collecting and processing necessary documents.
- Established and maintained relationships with high schools and community organizations to increase awareness of admissions process.
- Developed admissions policy, outlining rules and procedures compliant with government regulations.
- Reviewed applications and transcripts to verify student eligibility and compliance with admissions criteria.
- Coordinated open house events for prospective students, providing detailed information about programs and answering questions.
- Coordinated interviews with prospective students to assess academic qualifications and other criteria.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Southern New Hampshire University
Manchester, NH08-2025
Skills
- Individual Instruction-Ability to adapt lessons to meet diverse student needs, including IEP (Individualized Education Program) implementation
- Behavior Management – Proficiency in positive reinforcement strategies and behavior intervention plans
- Collaboration & Teamwork – Works effectively with parents, teachers, therapists, and community organizations to support student success
- Cultural Competency & Inclusivity – Understanding and respecting diverse backgrounds and abilities within the community
- Strong Communication Skills – Effectively communicates with students, families, and support staff to ensure educational and social growth
- Adaptability & Problem-Solving – Quickly adjusts to changing student needs and classroom dynamics
- Advocacy & Student Empowerment – Champions the rights and needs of students with disabilities, ensuring they receive necessary resources and support
- Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) Integration – Supports students' emotional and social development alongside academic progress
- Assistive Technology Proficiency – Familiarity with specialized tools and technology that aid learning and communication
- Community Engagement – Builds relationships with local organizations to create inclusive opportunities and real-world learning experiences for students
Accomplishments
- Founder & Coach – Established a community-based basketball training program for youth of all ages, collaborating with family and local high school players.
- Athletic Scholarship Recipient – Awarded a full-ride scholarship to play basketball at the University of Rhode Island.
- Professional Basketball Player – Competed professionally in Europe and South America, gaining invaluable cultural and athletic experiences.
Additional Information
Currently pursuing a BA in Psychology with plans to advance directly into a Master’s in Special Education, I successfully balance academics, professional responsibilities, and family life while raising two daughters. Deeply connected to the Purcellville community, I run a basketball training business and actively support local businesses. With a strong passion for youth development, I strive to foster confidence and personal growth in young individuals through mentorship, education, and athletics.
Hobbies and Interests
Community
Team
Athletics
Family
Health
Timeline
Behavioral Assistant
Loudoun County Public Schools
08.2024 - Current
Behavioral Assistant
Loudoun County Public Schools
08.2023 - 06.2024
Sales & Leasing Coordinator
US Automotive Leasing Services Inc.
03.2015 - 07.2023
Admissions Coordinator
Cornerstone University
04.2013 - 02.2015
Bachelor of Science - Psychology
Southern New Hampshire University
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