Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
References
Timeline
Generic

Melissa Quintana

Brandon,FL

Summary

Dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven track record at Tampa Hope, adept in de-escalation techniques and managing behavioral disorders. Excelled in creative art development and educational instruction, enhancing community engagement through gallery exhibition coordination. Demonstrated excellence in customer service and problem-solving, achieving significant improvements in client satisfaction and operational efficiency.

Overview

4
4
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Shelter Monitor

Tampa Hope
Tampa, FL
11.2024 - Current
  • Escorted residents to various areas within the building according to their needs or requests.
  • Connected individuals with relevant community resources and coordinated referrals.
  • Assisted in resolving disputes between residents peacefully while maintaining order within the facility.
  • Performed administrative tasks such as filing documents, updating databases and completing paperwork related to guest services.
  • Assisted in enforcing rules and regulations within the shelter, ensuring that all guests were treated with respect.
  • Performed light housekeeping and organization to maintain safe and clean environment.
  • Adhered to all safety procedures outlined by management while performing duties as Shelter Monitor.
  • Supported other staff members with daily operations including cleaning common areas and sanitizing surfaces regularly.
  • Managed incoming calls from individuals seeking shelter services, providing appropriate referrals when necessary.
  • Greeted visitors upon their arrival at the shelter, verifying identification and assigning temporary lodging if needed.
  • Collaborated with social workers to support patients.
  • Answered questions and responded to inquiries to deliver high level of service to patients.
  • Worked closely with disabled or impoverished individuals to locate helpful financial resources and community programs.
  • Performed assessments to determine individual limitations and strengths.
  • Provided information regarding services available at the shelter, as well as resources available in the community.
  • Managed programming and administrative aspects of this temporary homeless shelter for women and children, many with dual diagnoses.
  • Maintained professionalism and efficiency in emergency situations.
  • Reminded patients to take prescribed medications or nutritional supplements.
  • Empowered patients and families to negotiate with resource providers and make decisions on own behalf.
  • Distributed meals according to established guidelines while promoting healthy eating habits among guests.
  • Participated in trainings sessions designed to enhance knowledge of relevant policies and procedures.
  • Provided guidance and support to individuals who are homeless or facing difficult circumstances.
  • Ensured safety of shelter occupants by monitoring facility, responding to incidents and providing assistance when necessary.
  • Built and maintained strong relationships with patients by successfully resolving issues and responding promptly to phone inquiries.
  • Maintained confidential patient documentation to prevent data compromise and comply with HIPAA regulations.
  • Helped individuals address disabilities and put together career plans.
  • Guided clients through transition to independent living within community.
  • Maintained accurate records of all visitors entering and leaving the facility.

Art Teacher, K-12

Creative Junk Therapy
Brandon, FL
02.2022 - Current
  • Integrated technology into the classroom by using digital media tools to enhance instruction.
  • Collaborated with parents to support students' artistic interests and academic progress.
  • Planned, prepared and delivered instructional activities related to various art mediums.
  • Adapted teaching methods and materials to meet students' varying needs and interests.
  • Established relationships with local artists and organizations to facilitate community outreach activities.
  • Advocated for increased funding for school-wide arts programs through grant writing initiatives.
  • Referred to district standards to plan lessons and prepare students to take standardized assessments.
  • Organized storage areas and controlled use of materials, equipment and tools to prevent loss or waste.
  • Coordinated with other teachers to integrate art into cross-curricular projects, enriching students' educational experience.
  • Managed supply inventory and budget for art materials, ensuring resources were available for all projects.
  • Led field trips to museums and galleries, enriching students' understanding of art history and contemporary practices.
  • Prepared, administered and graded daily work and tests to evaluate student's progress.
  • Delivered tutoring sessions to help students grasp complex concepts in one-on-one settings.
  • Conducted regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss student progress and concerns.
  • Implemented safety protocols for the use of art materials and equipment.
  • Fostered a culture of respect, creativity, and collaboration among students.
  • Delivered educational after-school activities for groups of students to improve learning potential outside of classroom.
  • Provided positive feedback with emphasis on learning from mistakes to establish solid foundation for progress.
  • Designed course syllabi that reflected current learning objectives for each grade level.
  • Developed strategies for including students with diverse learning needs in art projects.
  • Instructed students on proper care and use of art tools and equipment.

Artist

Independant
Brandon, FL
01.2021 - Current
  • Updated business website content and design and social media accounts, adding visual appeal as direct reflection on business.
  • Drove business development and relationship building to achieve business goals.
  • Promoted business by participating in and volunteering at community events and marketing business on social media.
  • Developed business plans to drive both large and small changes in business.
  • Established relationships with business owners, professionals, executives, and affluent families in the region to generate new business opportunities.
  • Promoted collaboration among peers through cooperative learning activities.
  • Encouraged collaboration among classmates through group activities.
  • Set specific goals for projects to measure progress and evaluate end results.
  • Identified needs of customers promptly and efficiently.
  • Wrote and submitted reports on industry trends, prompting managers to develop business plans.
  • Identified areas for improvement, narrowing focus for decision-makers in making necessary changes.
  • Utilized document management system to organize company files, keeping up-to-date and easily accessible data.
  • Drafted sketches for prospective projects to present to clients.
  • Integrated and developed visual elements to produce illustrations of ideas, emotions or moods.
  • Conducted research to incorporate historical and cultural accuracy into artworks.
  • Led art workshops and classes for different age groups, focusing on skill development.
  • Interfaced with clients and customers to determine special art project needs, prepared design proposals and defined project scope.
  • Created promotional materials such as brochures or flyers for upcoming events or classes.
  • Produced imaginative illustrations for children's books.
  • Utilized diverse mediums and techniques to create visually appealing art pieces.
  • Maintained inventory of art supplies such as canvases, frames, brushes, paper.
  • Actively participated in the artistic community, attending events and networking with other professionals.
  • Nurtured relationships with artists and other internal partners to create positive rapport for future projects.
  • Negotiated contracts and agreements with galleries, museums, and private collectors.
  • Participated in critiques of other artist's work within the community.

Art Teacher

The Village
Brandon, FL
06.2023 - 12.2024
  • Adapted teaching methods to suit different learning abilities and styles within the classroom.
  • Controlled classroom environments with clearly outlined rules and positive reinforcement techniques.
  • Collaborated with colleagues to develop and refine curriculum that meets state and national standards.
  • Implemented hands-on, play-based strategies for experiential learning.
  • Administered first aid and medication in accordance with health and safety regulations.
  • Guided children in developing essential life skills, such as independence and problem-solving.
  • Supervised children during meal times, playtime, and other activities.
  • Encouraged children's curiosity and exploration through interactive learning activities.
  • Ensured safety of all children by monitoring playground equipment use.
  • Created a positive, nurturing environment for young students.
  • Facilitated group activities that encouraged cooperation and positive interactions among children.
  • Maintained a digital portfolio for each student, documenting progress and achievements.
  • Developed and implemented skill-building activities to build students' abilities.
  • Planned, prepared and delivered instructional activities related to various art mediums.
  • Presented and designed exciting lessons to actively engage learners.
  • Displayed students' work in schools, galleries and exhibitions to acknowledge creative pieces and boost student confidence.
  • Planned special events such as art shows to showcase student work.
  • Developed and implemented comprehensive art curriculum covering various techniques and historical contexts.
  • Communicated regularly with parents regarding student performance in class.
  • Developed strategies for including students with diverse learning needs in art projects.
  • Attended professional development workshops related to Art education best practices.
  • Managed student behavior in classroom with appropriate behavior strategies.
  • Managed supply inventory and budget for art materials, ensuring resources were available for all projects.

Art Teacher

Learn to Thrive
Brandon, FL
08.2024 - 11.2024
  • Encouraged self-advocacy skills amongst all students including those on the autism spectrum.
  • Attended conferences pertaining to special education topics such as Assistive Technology or Autism Spectrum Disorders.
  • Assisted teachers in managing challenging behaviors associated with Autism Spectrum Disorder while maintaining a safe learning environment.
  • Provided emotional support and guidance to individuals with autism.
  • Developed and implemented behavior modification programs for clients with mental health, autism spectrum, and developmental disabilities.
  • Supported staff members by providing guidance on best practices when working with individuals on the autism spectrum.
  • Conducted research projects related to ABA interventions used in treating autism spectrum disorders.
  • Motivated and coached students of varying levels to play songs and jingles.
  • Prompted student motivation, participation and listening skills through positive reinforcement and weekly recognition.
  • Implemented safety protocols for the use of art materials and equipment.
  • Collaborated with other teachers on curriculum development related to Art classes.
  • Prepared detailed reports summarizing student progress throughout the year.
  • Led field trips to museums and galleries, enriching students' understanding of art history and contemporary practices.
  • Provided guidance and support for students preparing portfolios for college or art school applications.
  • Established and enforced rules for behavior and procedures to maintain order in classroom.
  • Supervised after-school activities related to Art club meetings or competitions.
  • Coordinated with other teachers to integrate art into cross-curricular projects, enriching students' educational experience.
  • Enforced school rules in order to maintain an orderly learning environment.
  • Maintained accurate records of student attendance, grades, and progress reports.
  • Fostered a culture of respect, creativity, and collaboration among students.
  • Hung art in classroom and in school hallways to display students' work.
  • Selected and obtained materials and supplies and performance pieces to prepare for classroom instruction.

Program Facilitator

Tampa Bay Museum of Art
Tampa, FL
02.2024 - 10.2024
  • Ensured program compliance with local regulations and standards.
  • Coordinated volunteer resources within the organization's programs.
  • Adapted teaching methods based on individual participant needs or abilities.
  • Developed and implemented program curriculum for youth participants.
  • Maintained accurate records of program attendance and outcomes.
  • Analyzed data to assess program impact and to guide strategic planning.
  • Prepared detailed reports for stakeholders, highlighting program achievements and challenges.
  • Maintained comprehensive databases of participants, activities, and outcomes for reporting purposes.
  • Integrated technology into lesson plans as appropriate.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental collaboration to meet program objectives and deadlines.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors and service providers, securing favorable terms.
  • Directed and coordinated activities of teachers or administrators at schools, public agencies or institutions.
  • Facilitated group activities in a safe, supportive environment.
  • Modeled positive attitudes and choices for program participants to improve behaviors.
  • Managed time effectively to ensure tasks were completed on schedule and deadlines were met.
  • Worked effectively in team environments to make the workplace more productive.
  • Assisted in the selection of appropriate supplies needed for classroom use.
  • Hung art in classroom and in school hallways to display students' work.
  • Developed and implemented skill-building activities to build students' abilities.
  • Planned special events such as art shows to showcase student work.
  • Supervised after-school activities related to Art club meetings or competitions.
  • Organized storage areas and controlled use of materials, equipment and tools to prevent loss or waste.
  • Participated in professional development opportunities to stay current with best practices in art education.
  • Encouraged students to think critically about artwork and discuss its meaning or purpose.
  • Displayed students' work in schools, galleries and exhibitions to acknowledge creative pieces and boost student confidence.

Lead Waitress

Waffle House
Brandon, FL
03.2021 - 12.2023
  • Circulated within assigned areas to assess and address customer needs, effectively prioritizing tasks during peak hours.
  • Presented menus to patrons, answered questions about menu items and made recommendations.
  • Managed customer service inquiries, complaints, escalations.
  • Provided superior customer service to all shoppers.
  • Compiled reports on customer service metrics.
  • Developed and implemented customer service policies and procedures to ensure quality customer service delivery.
  • Kept track of cleaning supplies inventory levels.
  • Maintained accurate records of all cleaning activities.
  • Used cleaning chemicals following proper guidelines.
  • Worked with cross-functional teams to achieve goals.
  • Approached customers and engaged in conversation through use of effective interpersonal and people skills.
  • Took food and beverage orders accurately, ensuring special dietary needs were met.
  • Participated in team meetings to discuss performance, sales targets, and strategies for improving service.
  • Accurately calculated checks using POS system; processed payment transactions quickly and efficiently.
  • Coordinated with kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery of orders.
  • Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations in all dining and kitchen areas.
  • Stocked service areas with supplies during slow periods.
  • Collected dirty dishes and glasses from tables or counters, preparing areas for next diners.
  • Delivered food and drinks to tables efficiently, maintaining optimal food temperature and presentation.
  • Informed customers of daily specials and signature menu items.
  • Checked regularly with guests to ensure satisfaction with each food course and beverages.
  • Brewed coffee and distributed to guests.
  • Performed opening and closing duties such as counting money in register drawers or restocking supplies.
  • Checked with guests to get feedback on food served, resolve issues, bring additional items and refill beverages.

Education

Associate of Arts - Art Education

Hillsborough Community College
Tampa, FL
06-2025

High School Diploma -

Riverview Highschool
Riverview, FL
05-2023

Skills

  • De-escalation techniques
  • Managing behavioral disorders and neurodiversity
  • Problem-solving
  • Customer service
  • Educational instruction
  • Creative art development
  • Gallery exhibition coordination
  • Art gallery management
  • Acrylic and oil painting
  • Contract negotiation

Affiliations

  • Painting
  • Writing
  • Reading
  • Sketchbook creating
  • Thrifting
  • Adventuring

Accomplishments

  • Recognized as a State Artist by the U.S. House of Representatives in Florida
  • American Nominee through the state of Florida
  • Community Certification in Instructional Teaching
  • Art Therapist Groupwork Awarded

Certification

  • Art Therapist Certification through Alison of Directors
  • Social and Emotional certification in Classroom Management

Languages

English
Professional
Spanish
Native/ Bilingual

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Shelter Monitor

Tampa Hope
11.2024 - Current

Art Teacher

Learn to Thrive
08.2024 - 11.2024

Program Facilitator

Tampa Bay Museum of Art
02.2024 - 10.2024

Art Teacher

The Village
06.2023 - 12.2024

Art Teacher, K-12

Creative Junk Therapy
02.2022 - Current

Lead Waitress

Waffle House
03.2021 - 12.2023

Artist

Independant
01.2021 - Current

Associate of Arts - Art Education

Hillsborough Community College

High School Diploma -

Riverview Highschool
Melissa Quintana