“Every day, individuals make a positive difference in people's lives, and it is important for all of us to understand what we contribute to the world,” said Brooke Holland, art educator at Medomak Valley High School. “It takes practice, but it's so important in life to know your self worth.”

The high school Studio Photography class, led by Holland and assisted by volunteer Mr. Santheson, wanted to redo a project that the seniors experienced as freshmen, right before COVID-19 closed schools.

The school-wide project entailed the community recognize why each person is important, “what we can offer the world, and why we matter,” said Holland.

The #WhyYouMatter program wanted to show how everyone in the school (staff and students) matters. Most students and staff were photographed with each person determining why they matter and writing that down to share. There are no names associated with the images.

“We are hoping that 3-½ years later we can get more of our school involved and our RSU 40 community and to remember We All Matter and sometimes we need to help remind each other the importance of another in our lives,” said Holland. “We will build in community days  in early March for sittings. The Why You Matter opening will be in conjunction with the Science Fair Open House on March 23.”

She said that representation matters in this project, and, “having all grades, social groups, and the student body come together within this project to show why mental health is important and why it matters.”

‘The more people who volunteer, the better it will be to show a school community coming together and bringing awareness to a serious topic,” said Trishelle Ames, MVHS senior.

This photo gallery represents students, staff, alumni and community members who have sat for portraits within the past week.

The photo room at the high school has been open for anyone who wants to visit it during a study hall, or REP.