In May 2024, Elena Rodriguez graduated cum laude from Valparaiso University with a BA in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. During her senior year, she interned in a K-3rd grade special education classroom for a semester. This is where her passion for working with children with autism developed. When her internship ended, the school hired Elena part-time until she graduated. 

Throughout the 24/25 school year she worked as a 5th and 6th grade teacher’s assistant in a special education school in Arlington Heights which serves children with severe developmental disabilities. The majority of the children in her classroom had autism and were non-verbal. During this time, Elena worked part-time at Autism Planet as an ABA therapist. Elena enjoyed her time so much at Autism Planet that she decided to make it her full-time job. The amazing community and support from the team helped her to make this decision. She is hardworking, patient, and compassionate. Elena prides herself on being a welcoming and friendly presence so children feel safe.

Elena will be starting graduate school in August to obtain her Masters in ABA. She will be attending online classes through Florida Tech and her goal is to eventually become a BCBA. When not at work, she enjoys singing in the church choir, crafts, spending time with friends and family and community service. And she really loves her two cats, Kiki and Lovebug. 

Jasmine’s Note About Elena: Elena is truly always thinking about the kids, she is great at coming up with activities or strategies to try with the kids to help them learn or to engage meaningfully with them! When you see Elena engage with the kids, you can plainly see that she absolutely loves working with children and is genuinely enjoying her time with them!