| | 20 October 2025 A Shared Beginning In January 2026, the Pollyanna National Conference will bring together students, educators, parents, trustees, alumni and community engagers from across the country — all committed to Building Stronger and Kinder Schools.
What makes this inaugural gathering different is not just who’s attending, but how it’s designed: collaboration, dialogue, and shared participation are built into every moment. This isn’t a conference where ideas stay on stage, it’s one where every participant helps shape what happens next. Together, we’ll explore how to: - Build community across roles and identities through shared dialogue
- Turn reflection into action and action into measurable change
- Lead with inclusion that lasts beyond the conference
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| The Power in the Room Casper Caldarola, Founder, Pollyanna When I first imagined this National Conference, I pictured a room filled with people who care deeply about the same question: How do we make schools stronger, kinder, and more equitable? The answer has always been in the collective. This Conference is about bringing those voices together — learning from each other, questioning with compassion, and returning home ready to create lasting impact. Jason Craige Harris, Conference Guide, Pollyanna National Conference I’ve seen what happens when every voice is heard — energy builds, perspectives expand, and new solutions emerge. My hope for this conference is that everyone leaves with both inspiration and practical strategies. It’s not about being in the audience; it’s about being part of a movement that’s just beginning. |
| Want to Learn More? Join us for a Q & A. Still thinking about attending? Before we gather in Minneapolis, Casper and Jason will host two live Q&A sessions on Zoom on October 30 — open to anyone interested in learning more about the Conference. These brief sessions are a great way to: - Learn what makes the conference different
- Hear how schools are preparing to participate
- Ask questions before you decide to register
Thursday, October 30 4:30PM ET / 1:30PM PT and 7:00PM ET / 4:00PM PT Choose the time that works best for you and join the conversation and bring your questions. Register for one of the Q&A Sessions here. |
| In Their Own Words “Building a stronger and kinder community takes teamwork! Thrilled for our POD to attend the Pollyanna National Conference for a meaningful time of learning, sharing, and positive, unified growth.”
~ Marsha Elliott, Director of Equity and Inclusion, St. Stephen’s Episcopal School, Austin, TX |
| Why This Moment Matters This is Pollyanna’s first national gathering in a space created for collaboration, reflection, and shared progress. The conversations that begin here will help shape the future of equity and inclusion in schools. We invite you to bring your voice, your team, and your curiosity — because what starts in Minneapolis this January will continue in every school community represented. |
| | Be part of the first Pollyanna National Conference where inclusion is not just a theme, but a practice lived in every session, every POD, and every conversation. With anticipation,
The Pollyanna Team |
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|  | HIGHLIGHTED WORKSHOP Naledi Semela - Words Matter: Using Identity-Conscious Language to Foster Belonging Well-intentioned language can sometimes cause harm. Phrases like “regardless of race” or “no matter your religion” may aim for inclusivity but often erase identity and lived experience. This interactive workshop supports K-12 educators in recognizing how everyday language impacts belonging. Participants will explore implicit bias, practice using identity-affirming alternatives, and engage in hands-on revision of real-world school communications. Together, we’ll reflect on how to align our words with our school values, ensuring that all students, families, and colleagues feel seen, respected, and fully included. *** WHAT'S NEXT? October: Finalize your travel arrangements, hotel rooms are available to book here. November: Registered schools receive a Pre-Conference Planning Guide with POD directions and reflection tools December: Schools submit final POD lists to this form. January: Gather in Minneapolis for workshops, connections, and collective vision-building Note: Meals at the Conference – Lunch and refreshments will be provided on Wednesday and Thursday, and heavy appetizers at the Welcome Reception on Tuesday night. We accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-sensitive options. *** CONFERENCE NEWSLETTERS The Power of the POD The Impact of the Student Voice Unity In Action The Tools Needed The Ripple Effect The Impact of Every Voice *** QUICK LINKS *** THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS
Inclusion Ally Strategenius, VHH Consulting, Meredith Herrera Consulting Community Connector Private School Village, Joy-Raising, DoSomething.org, Teach AAPI, The Boys' Room, Private School AXIS, Chrysalis Academy, Educating for Equity, Pollyanna Teen Council |
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| Join us! | Pollyanna National Conference – Building Stronger and Kinder Communities
January 20–22, 2026 | Minneapolis, MN
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| Pollyanna, Inc. is a not-for-profit corporation 501(c)(3). © 2025 Pollyanna | New York, NY 10075 |
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