September 2022 Update from Pollyanna
September 2022
 
Dear Friend,
 
In recent weeks, I’ve read several reports and articles about quiet quitting and teachers leaving the profession in droves. After initially asking myself, “What wisdom and encouragement might teachers need in this moment?” my mind moved to another, perhaps less obvious question: “What wisdom and encouragement might LEADERS need in this moment?” 
 
These questions led me to a short video about leadership from the author and leadership theorist, Simon Sinek. In the video, Sinek recounts an interaction with a barista named Noah in the lobby of the Four Season hotel in Las Vegas. Noah explained all of the reasons he loved his work at the Four Seasons but did not enjoy similar work at a rival hotel. For Noah, the varied experiences boiled down to the environment created by management in both hotels. Ultimately, Noah felt like the leadership in the Four Seasons supported him in his work and encouraged him to be himself. 
 
Thinking about Sinek’s story and teachers, I wondered:
  • How can leaders help create the right environments for teachers to thrive?
  • And, how can leaders do more to catch teachers doing good, not doing wrong?
 
In truth, this isn’t just a message for school administrators. Whether we are parents, students, teachers, business executives, healthcare professionals, or anyone who functions within a community of other humans: We are all leaders. We all have moments when it is our responsibility to lift up others around us.

In a world that seems to have become increasingly unkind, we might consider taking the time to pause and ask ourselves: What are we doing to help others be their best?
 
Warmly,
 
Casper Caldarola
Founder
 

In the News

Thank You to NYSAIS for the Partnership
NYSAIS has incredible programming. Take a look at all of their events coming up this fall. We look forward to partnering with them on more workshops!
 
Pollyanna Teen Council 2022-23 Kicks Off in September
Please join advisor and author Charles Vogl as our guest for the first session of the new school year. Our teens come together for monthly discussions and to learn how their voice matters.  Sign up on our page to receive Zoom links and info! 
4-Part Workshop for Teacher Leaders
Beginning in October, join Jaci and Jay for a deep dive for teacher leaders of all racial identities who have consistently been doing the work in their school communities.  Register through NYSAIS
 
Community Bonding & Building Opportunity
Interested in hosting? Both models are a great way to bring community together, engage in conversations and generate actionable items to create schools where everyone belongs. Check out the Brentwood Conference video and email us for more info.
Reach Out if We Can Be of Help with Your Planning for 2022-23
 
 
MISSION
Pollyanna advances systemic change by developing stronger communities.
STRATEGY
Pollyanna works with academic and other institutions to achieve their diversity, equity and inclusion goals. Through its unique conference models, discussion platforms, and racial literacy curricula, Pollyanna increases cultural competence.
 
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