Teacher uses art to inspire Blue Water students, communities

Jason Stier was instrumental in St. Clair's Community Block project.
More than 15 years ago, Jason Stier was exploring in Oregon after graduating from college, when he got a phone call that changed his life.

Nina Reznich, former principal of Riverview East, in St. Clair, called him and asked if he would consider moving back home to start a Visual Arts program at the high school.

"I had mere weeks to decide yes or no, and then pack my bags, move home, and start a brand new program at an ‘alternative’ high school, which I knew nothing about," says Stier.

An alternative high school is a school for students who struggle in a traditional environment.

Stier had previously completed his student teaching at the elementary and middle school level, but he had not taught high schoolers-- students who were essentially the same age as him.

"I was intimidated," he says.

Finding direction

In the end, Stier agreed to move home and start the program, hoping his youth and inexperience would work to his advantage Imagine the possibilities of metal sculptures decorating the plaza.in developing relationships through common interests.

He developed a program based upon his own intuition, and also had help with input from students and the local community.

Building up the arts

During that process, Stier sought projects for the students that would enhance the community. The students started making clay fish that they would in turn, place across the county, not unlike the trendy hidden rocks that many cities partake in, where painted rocks are hidden for others to find and post to social media.

"The arts enable students to understand the world around them and the talents within them so that they can become fulfilled individuals and active, compassionate citizens."

He then set out to introduce himself and his students to the community.

"I wanted to make connections and show why art and creativity is important," he says.

Community Partnerships

Some of those new partnerships resulted in the students working on community projects such as the Marine City street banners, the St. Clair bike and skate park entranceway, and other works of art in the county.

"I wanted to give them the exposure to how things function," says Stier. "And how to work with the local government in order to bring their art to life."

A spark of inspiration

Growing up in St. Clair, Stier was uncertain about his future after high school graduation. He ended up in art school and was inspired by his teachers, but took some time off and headed to Oregon.

Jason Stier looks forward to new challenges now as a school administrator.Stier earned a bachelor of fine arts from Eastern Michigan University, and was inspired by his brother to get his teaching certification.

"My brother Scott now teaches at the American International School in Chennai, India, and inspired me to inspire others through teaching," says Stier, who also earned his master degree in alternative education through Lock Haven University.

New opportunities

He was recently named the principal of Riverview East when Reznich retired and hopes that because of his status as principal, he can make sure that the arts are more visual to those around the school.

"I now have the opportunity to view our program through a wider lens and help make connections between what is taught in our classrooms and how it can be applied to students' everyday lives," says Stier. "Ultimately I strive to help everyone in the educational community develop a sense of purpose and belonging."

Creating an arts community

In addition to teaching, Stier is strives to bring art to community as a whole. In fact, Stier will serve as moderator to the next Keel Community Conversation focused on creating a thriving arts and culture scene in St. Clair County.

He will be joined by Gina Panoff, executive director of Studio 1219; Jenn Schaub, Neighborhood Specialist at Dwelling Place of Grand Rapids and Elyse Marie Welcher, Founder of Littlewings Designs and co-founder of Parliament the Boutique.

The event takes place from 5 to 7 p.m. April 18 at Studio 1219, 1219 Military St. in Port Huron. Register for the Keel Community Conversation today. It is free and open to the public.