Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Timeline
Generic

Kristine Balestra

CLEVELAND,OH

Summary


Skilled landscape design professional with strong background in creating functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor spaces. Emphasis on innovative design, project management, and sustainable solutions. Known for effective collaboration within teams and adaptability to evolving project needs. Expertise in horticulture, site planning, and customer relations ensures consistently high-quality results.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience

Work History

Landscape Designer

Self-employed
04.2020 - Current
  • Evaluated existing landscapes for both residential and commercial spaces and provided recommendations for improvements based on client needs.
  • Balanced aesthetics with functionality by considering factors such as drainage systems, erosion control measures, maintenance requirements, safety concerns in all designs.
  • Communicated effectively with clients throughout the entire design process to ensure satisfaction with the final product.
  • Conducted site analyses and assessments to determine optimal design solutions for various projects.
  • Developed comprehensive plans, including plant selection and hardscaping elements, ensuring project success.
  • Rendered designs with manual and computer-aided methods.

Educational Consultant

Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
09.2014 - 07.2021


  • Analyzed and restructured educational programs to comply with board regulations.
  • Advocated for evidence-based instructional approaches that would foster a culture of continuous learning among both staff and students.
  • Developed workshops and training sessions for educators to enhance their knowledge of effective teaching practices.
  • Advised school administrators on policy implementation and program evaluation strategies, resulting in more effective decision-making processes.
  • Collaborated with school board officials to assess areas for improvement in curricula, classrooms, testing and student activities.

Special Education Supervisor

Parma City School District
01.2006 - 06.2014
  • Coached and observed 200 teachers to improve teaching techniques.
  • Supported general education teachers and administrators in implementing strategies to meet needs of students with IEPs.
  • Collaborated with families to provide resources for children outside of school district.
  • Interpreted and analyzed academic data to maintain student development and retention.
  • Organized professional development opportunities for teachers, improving their skills in managing diverse classroom environments.
  • Collaborated with teachers to conduct behavioral assessments and intervention plans for students.

Education

Landscape Design Certificate - Plant Sciences

Cuyahoga Community College
Highland Hills, OH
05-2023

Ed.S. - Education Administration

Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH
05-2004

Skills

  • Experienced with Vectorworks and Dynascape applications
  • Proficient in hand-drawing
  • Site analysis and base map management
  • Fundamental arboriculture expertise
  • Integrated landscape design solutions for various settings

Affiliations

  • Association of Professional Landscape Designers

Timeline

Landscape Designer

Self-employed
04.2020 - Current

Educational Consultant

Educational Service Center of Northeast Ohio
09.2014 - 07.2021

Special Education Supervisor

Parma City School District
01.2006 - 06.2014

Landscape Design Certificate - Plant Sciences

Cuyahoga Community College

Ed.S. - Education Administration

Cleveland State University