1 min read

Saint Dominic Academy teacher Romolo Marcoccio, left, reacts Monday morning to the Auburn school’s support of his longtime goal of becoming a rock star and  public performer. Teachers were asked by singer-songwriter Jesse Ruben, right, to share unfulfilled dreams and encourage them set measurable goals. Students were invited to ask teachers about progress on their goals. Amanda Hammond, center, previously committed to attending line dancing classes Monday evenings and students were given permission to ask her about her progress every Tuesday morning. Ruben’s We Can Project is an initiative inspired by his song “We Can” that focuses on empowering individuals, especially children, to make a positive impact in their communities and the world. Andree Kehn/Sun Journal
Jesse Ruben, a singer-songwriter who partners with schools to encourage students to believe in their potential and take steps to help others, sings Monday to students at Saint Dominic Academy at 151 Gracelawn Road in Auburn. His We Can Project explores themes of empathy, kindness and confidence. Students raise their hands in response to the song “Raise Your Hands” if they agreed with parts that asked if they have ever felt lonely or sad, before pivoting to ask if they still have hope. Andree Kehn/Sun Journal

Andree Kehn is a staff photographer who has lived in Lewiston for the past three years and has been a Greenwood resident for 20 years, on and off. She has worked full time for the Sun Journal since 2015....

Join the Conversation

Please sign into your Sun Journal account to participate in conversations below. If you do not have an account, you can register or subscribe. Questions? Please see our FAQs.