After 15 years of hosting meaningful local conferences, we are excited to deepen Pollyanna’s impact. We believe now is the time to expand on our local model and bring together schools from all over the country in support of our goal of Building Stronger and Kinder Communities.

This is an opportunity for those who share our mission of Building Stronger and Kinder Communities to expand their network nationally. In addition, the local conference is a bird’s eye view into a school’s immediate area where the national conference offers an opportunity for schools to learn from peers across the country.

Pollyanna’s conference model has a 15-year proven track record of bringing together schools to share challenges, effective practices and create action plans. Our unique POD model offers an opportunity for all constituent voices to have those important conversations that we know lead to clear and actionable plans.

On-site registration is not available given our unique attendee POD structure and the need to have a representative group of constituents from each school.

Attendee composition at a Pollyanna Conference is unique because of it’s POD structure. A POD is a representative group of constituents from your school community. Having a variety of constituent voices in the room has proven to enrich conversations and lead to more successful outcomes for the entire school. 

This tried-and-tested attendee makeup which includes a representative group of constituents called a POD, has proved to be very successful. The POD models allows for all constituent voices to be heard.

We recommend reaching out to specific constituent groups—administrators, alumni, community engagers, faculty, heads of school, parents, students, and trustees. Providing an open opportunity ensures participation from those interested. Additionally, consider personally inviting community members who are leaders or have expressed a desire to make an impact in strengthening your school.

Ideally, we’d like you to send the recommended composition for a 15-member (Large POD which is two members from each constituency and one head of school) or 8-member (Small POD which is one member from each constituency), in order to gain the most benefit for your school.

We would like to receive the names of your POD members by December 1, 2025 to ensure you have a POD locked in and we can begin to reach out and send them materials to prepare them for the conference. We will send you a form in November.

There will not be a virtual attendance option for those who cannot join in person. The benefits of this conference come from conversations that will take place in person during POD discussions, constituent groupings, and learning sessions, as well as general networking during our time in Minneapolis.

We will share the names of the schools attending but not the names of individual participants.

We have four incredible keynote speakers from the corporate, nonprofit, higher ed and literary world. Each will bring a fresh perspective for schools. In addition, we will have over 20 facilitators who will run topic workshops, circle discussions and constituent breakouts.  This is an opportunity for schools to share their challenges and effective practices, learn from peers, and develop action plans.

Some sessions will include all members of a POD, while others will be divided by constituent groups or open to all attendees.

The students are an important member of a School POD. They will attend workshops specifically for students and will attend Connection Circles, Learning Sessions and Sponsor Workshops. In addition, some students will participate in the student panel that takes place on the last day. This will be a facilitated discussion showcasing the student voice.

There is no limit to size and each session will be on a first come, first served basis.

The dress code is casual. We encourage attendees to dress comfortably, whether that’s jeans or business casual. Consider bringing layers, as the venue’s temperature may vary.

Yes, complimentary Wi-Fi will be available for attendees. Network details will be provided at the venue.

Visit the Travel page for a list of recommended hotels, all connected to the Convention Center. We’re excited to share that a limited number of hotel room blocks will be available for conference attendees at a discounted rate. Booking details, including links and deadlines, will be released this spring—stay tuned and book early to secure your spot!

The Advisory Committee includes trusted individuals who share Pollyanna’s vision and are committed to Building Stronger and Kinder Communities. We are grateful for their willingness to support the goals of the conference.

Our fine print is: We are offering free registration to one of the first 20 schools that register by May 15, 2025. We will hold a raffle and choose one “school name out of the hat,” and we will then contact the school that won.

We accept major credit cards, bank transfers and checks. If you need an alternative payment method, please contact us in advance.

Cancellations
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email to [email protected]. Please include the schools’ name and contact person’s email address.

Refunds
Cancellations made more than 120 days in advance will receive a full refund, between 120 and 90 days receive a 50% refund, and less than 90 days before the conference start date are not eligible for a refund.

Force Majeure
If the conference is canceled or postponed due to circumstances beyond our control (e.g., natural disasters or public health emergencies), registration fees will be applied to a future event.

Questions?
Please email us at [email protected] with any questions about cancellations or substitutions.

Yes, lunch and refreshments will be provided. We accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergen-sensitive options. 

Each individual school can determine its own plans for dinner. However, there will be a welcome reception on the first night from 5–6PM.

There are many dining options within a short walking distance of the Convention Center. For suggestions, please visit the Convention Center website.

Yes, the venue is fully wheelchair accessible, including entrances, seating, restrooms, and elevators.

We offer a variety of sponsorship opportunities for both non-profits and corporations. If you’re interested in supporting the event, please visit the Sponsor page.