About Me:
Hello! My name is Stephanie Harper & I am the Art Teacher here at LRUHS. I’m proud to be part of the Lake Region Union High School community, working alongside dedicated staff and inspiring students to create a dynamic and meaningful learning environment.
I was born in Newport, VT and consider myself a true Vermonter. From a young age, I knew I wanted to be an art teacher; I was always creating and loved sharing new ideas with others. After graduating from Lake Region in 2004, I attended Coastal Carolina University in Myrtle Beach, SC, where I earned my degree in art education. While in South Carolina, I gained valuable experience through internships and student teaching in Horry County Schools, as well as working at the Franklin G. Burroughs-Simeon B. Chapin Art Museum.
After five years away, I returned to Vermont, drawn back by the changing seasons and a strong connection to my roots. I first worked as an After School Program Coordinator at Missisquoi Valley Union High School in Swanton before returning to Lake Region, but this time as a teacher.
Now in my 15th year at Lake Region, I’ve developed a curriculum designed to help students grow intellectually, emotionally, socially, and artistically. My goal is to empower students to overcome the fear of being wrong, think creatively, solve problems, and reflect critically on their work. Each class introduces students to the elements and principles of design, art history, critique, and a variety of media and techniques. Students also create digital portfolios to showcase and share their artwork.
I believe that art has the power to inspire, record history, and connect people across differences. That’s why I place strong value on community partnerships and seek out opportunities for students to make a difference through the arts.
Over the years, my students have participated in art shows and competitions across Vermont and the nation, earning numerous awards and recognitions. We’re proud of these achievements and excited to continue growing and creating, while bringing color, culture, and Ranger pride to our school and beyond.
Education:
Coastal Carolina University, Myrtle Beach, SC
B.A. in Art Studio, 2008
M.A.T. in Art Education, 2009
Certification:
VT Professional Educators License Art Pre-K-12
Highly Qualified Teacher
Recognitions:
LRUHS Teacher of the Year, 2016
Vermont's Art Teacher of the Year, 2023
Hobbies:
Teaching Art, Being Creative, Health & Wellness, Music, Dance, Snowboarding, Spending Time w/ My Family & Friends (Pets too of course!), Taking Pictures, Stargazing, Laughing, & Learning.
