James “Jay” Howe grew up in Ann Arbor, where he attended Ann Arbor Public Schools—Allen, Burns Park, Tappan, and Huron. After graduating from Huron High School in 1995, he went on to study at the University of Iowa, where he earned his bachelor’s degree, and he later completed a Master of Arts in Art at Eastern Michigan University.
Howe has been teaching for over 22 years, starting his career with AAPS. Over the years, he’s developed a deep passion for fostering creativity in young people and helping them discover their own artistic potential. As an educator, he aims to inspire curiosity, confidence, and a love for learning in every student with whom he works.
Outside of teaching, Howe loves spending time with his family, whether it’s tackling home improvement projects together or simply enjoying each other’s company. He also tries to stay active through yoga and the gym, and he’s an avid reader. He says books are a big part of his life, helping him stay grounded and continuously inspired.
Howe says he now has the privilege of watching his own children attend Ann Arbor Public Schools, which feels like a full-circle moment for him.
Tappan Principal Tyese Parnell says that Howe has been a welcomed addition to the Tappan team.
“I love how vested he is with all of our students and his willingness to get to know each of our students individually,” she says. “He is also a great team player who works with staff to support any of their needs as it pertains to art. Our Tappan team is better because of him!”
How did your early experiences as a student in Ann Arbor Public Schools influence your decision to
become an art educator?
Growing up in Ann Arbor was a great experience. The town has always been full of creativity and opportunities, and that shaped my love for the arts. After traveling around the country, I realized there’s really no place quite like Ann Arbor—it’s a special mix of culture, community, and open-mindedness.
Becoming an art educator was a natural choice for me because I wanted to help students experience the same kind of creative freedom and support I had here. Even though I’ve gotten a little tired of the long winters, I can’t imagine a better place to live or raise my family. I’m grateful for the foundation this town gave me, and I’m excited to give back as an educator.
What do you like most about teaching art, and what would surprise people about the job?
The best part of teaching art is seeing students have those “ah ha” moments when they realize they can do something they didn’t think was possible. It’s amazing to watch their confidence grow.
What might surprise people is how much patience and flexibility the job requires. Art is messy and full of trial and error, so it’s all about creating a space where students feel free to experiment and make mistakes.
What unique challenges and opportunities have you encountered while teaching art at so many AAPS schools? And do you have a favorite grade level?
I’ve taught at both the high school and middle school levels, and I really enjoy both for different reasons. Right now, I’m loving middle school—there’s such an exciting energy in the classroom, and their enthusiasm is contagious.
Each school has its own unique challenges, but one of the biggest opportunities in AAPS is the chance to work with so many diverse groups of students. Right now, I’m fortunate to be at Tappan, where the positive climate is a huge factor. Dr. Parnell and Mr. Stephan Hogan (assistant principal at Tappan last year; now interim principal at Abbot) are incredible principals, and their support makes all the difference in creating an environment where students thrive.
Beyond the classroom, how do you continue to develop your own artistic skills and stay connected to the local art community?
I have a home pottery studio where I can work and create. I used to focus more on selling my pieces, but lately, I’ve really embraced the creative process itself. It’s been so fulfilling to just enjoy the act of making, without the pressure of selling or expectations. It’s become more about personal expression and finding joy in the moment.
Growing up in Ann Arbor, what specific memories or mentors influenced your path toward becoming an art teacher?
Middle school can be a tough time for many, but I was lucky to have a couple of teachers who really made a difference for me. They were the ones who helped me find my voice and gave me the encouragement I needed to push through those years. I try to bring that same support and inspiration to my own students today.
Is your home filled with your artwork?
I do have some of my own work in the house, although I really enjoy having other people’s work up
more than my own.
What’s the most memorable project or moment you’ve experienced with a student that reinforced your passion for teaching art?
I’ve had students earn scholarships and win awards, and it’s been amazing to see them accomplish great things after AAPS. But honestly, the moments I cherish most are when we dive into conversations about their work and I get to watch them in the learning process. Those are the moments that really remind me why I love teaching.
Outside of teaching, what artistic mediums do you enjoy exploring in your personal creative time?
Outside of teaching, I still love working with clay—it’s always been my main medium. I also enjoy photography and painting, as they offer different ways to explore and express my creativity.
This is your second year at Tappan Middle School. What do you like about the Tappan community?
Tappan is by far the best school I’ve worked at. The students are always fantastic, and the staff and administrators are truly dedicated. Everyone works so hard to make sure the students not only do their best but also feel supported and cared for. It’s an amazing community to be a part of.
What’s your favorite project to teach?
I really love that I get to teach a little bit of everything—graphics, painting, photography, ceramics, and more. Each medium offers something unique and allows students to explore different ways of expressing their creativity. It’s exciting to see them get inspired by new techniques and find their own style through such a variety of projects. The diversity in what I can teach keeps things fresh and engaging for both me and the students.
What advice would you give to aspiring art teachers?
It’s a tough time to be giving advice to aspiring art teachers, as the challenges in education today are unlike anything I’ve seen. When I started 20 years ago, I knew I’d have strong benefits and a pension to look forward to, but unfortunately, those days are behind us. That said, my advice would be to stay focused on the heart of the work—teaching and inspiring students. Despite the changes and challenges, the joy of seeing students grow, find their voice, and create something meaningful makes it all worthwhile. Stay passionate, stay resilient, and remember why you started in the first place.
How do you spend your summer break?
I work, most teachers need a second job these days, I also spend time with my family and friends
recharging for the following year.
What are you most excited about right now?
The day to day interactions with the students, they make me laugh and keep me young.