What Makes this Conference Different:

The Student Voice

At the Pollyanna National Conference, students aren’t just participants—they’re partners.

In PODs, students sit alongside administrators, alumni, faculty, parents, community engagers, and trustees as equals, ensuring every conversation is rooted in authenticity and lived experience.

Throughout the conference, students also share reflections and takeaways with the full group—reminding us what school feels like through their eyes.

This structure ensures that your school leaves with more than ideas:

Authenticity – students bring what’s real, urgent, and meaningful in school life.

Perspective – hearing directly from young people reshapes how adults perceive challenges and solutions.

Momentum – when students speak, schools return with clarity, energy, and renewed purpose.

Why Kindness Matters in Education

“Kindness builds well-being, reduces stress, and fosters social connection—and those benefits extend deeply into school communities.” — Harvard Health Publishing
Explore the Power of Kindness in Schools →

A Student's Perspective

“Being in a POD is interesting…it’s rare to find in DEIB circles a space MADE for kids and teens, with the express purpose of meeting their needs. As someone who has helped facilitate student discussions, it’s amazing to watch kids who’ve never met connect and build community over the course of an hour or two."

— Mira, high schooler

Why the Student Voice Matters in Education

Schools thrive when student voices shape the culture—fostering belonging, trust, and a shared sense of purpose. As an added bonus, students who feel their voices matter also tend to perform better academically, with higher GPAs and improved attendance.

As Education Week notes, top teachers make the student voice a priority by promoting student inquiry, nurturing trust, and encouraging advocacy around issues that matter inside and outside the classroom. In short, schools that listen to their students see stronger engagement, deeper learning, and more meaningful community.

Read more in Education Week →

What's Next?

September: Hotel rooms are available to book here.

November: Registered schools receive a Pre-Conference Planning Guide with POD directions, reflection tools, and tips—designed to center the student voice effectively in your team’s experience.

December: Schools submit final POD list.

January: Your school won’t just bring ideas back—you’ll return with a plan, a network, and renewed energy to launch meaningful change.

We can’t wait to see how student voices turn dialogue into action in Minneapolis.

With anticipation,
The Pollyanna Team