POLLYANNA TEEN COUNCIL
Mission
Pollyanna Teen Council connects students with an interest in helping their school build strong and kinder communities, and empowers them to make change in whatever ways are possible.
About Pollyanna Teen Council
Pollyanna Teen Council brings together passionate 13–18 year olds from across the U.S. who believe schools can be Stronger and Kinder Communities. Each month, teens connect on Zoom for engaging conversations with inspiring guest speakers, followed by meaningful discussions on how to create change in their own schools.
Led by our incredible teen leaders and supported by Pollyanna’s dedicated adults, the Council is a space for discovery, leadership, and connection.
We meet one Sunday per month from 3–4 PM ET / 12–1 PM PT. Join us, add your voice, and help shape the future of education and community.
Fill out this short form if you’re interested in attending a meetup this year.
2025 – 2026 Topics and Special Guests
10/19/2025: Your Voice, Your Power -- Civic Engagement for Students
Sadiqa Reynolds, the Founder and President of the Norton Healthcare Sports & Learning Center, trailblazing lawyer, civic leader, and community builder, will share her journey and insights on civic engagement. Students will explore how to use their voices, take action in civic life, and lead with purpose in their communities.
11/16/2025: The Science & Soul of Connection
Educator and social-emotional learning specialist Megan Saxelby explores the role of authentic connection in personal well-being, leadership, and community resilience. Participants will learn strategies to strengthen relationships and foster supportive, thriving communities.
12/14/2025: Speak Up -- Defending Student Voices
Students will explore free expression, censorship, and their rights in schools, guided by the National Coalition Against Censorship’s Student Advocates for Speech. This session will equip students with tools to speak confidently, navigate challenges, and advocate for their voices in their school community.
2/8/2026: Who Am I? Exploring Identity and Belonging
Anthony Witte, founder of Witte’s End Consulting, leads a conversation on identity, belonging, and equity. Drawing on experience in independent school leadership, journalism, and arts administration, he provides insights on cultural competency and inclusive community-building.
3/8/2026: Building Community in the Face of Hate
Manny Yekutiel, founder of Manny’s—a San Francisco civic gathering space—shares strategies for community engagement and resilience in the face of antisemitism. Drawing on experiences from the White House, FWD.us, and global human rights work, Manny highlights ways to create inclusive spaces for dialogue.
4/19/2026: AI and the Future of Inclusion
Inclusion strategist Samantha Hosein explores the intersections of artificial intelligence, inclusive leadership, and equitable organizational change. She will discuss how AI may shape education, workplaces, and leadership practices while fostering inclusion and fairness.
5/17/2026: College Unplugged: Alumni Insights & Real Talk
Aaron Ray, Director of Opportunity Programs at Hamilton College, joins Pollyanna Teen Council alumni to share candid lessons on the college transition. With a decade of experience in access, equity, and student success, Aaron offers strategies for thriving academically and socially.
Our prior Topics and Special Guests
2024 - 2025 Season
10/20/24 – Being Heard and Not Hurt with Jason Craige Harris
11/17/24 – Coming Out Again and Again with Frank Patti
12/8/24 – Metaracism with Professor Tricia Rose
1/26/25 – Inequalities in Education
2/23/25 – How Do You Discern Real News?
4/27/25 – Leading a School with Saya McKenna
5/18/25 – How Powerful is the Teen Voice with Dré Finley
2023 - 2024 Season
10/15/23 – How to Prioritize Your Mental Health – Dr. Linda Anderson
12/10/23 – Is AI Inherently Biased? – Manuela Veloso, Ph.D.
1/21/24 – The Importance of Affinity Groups – Trina Moore-Southall
2/25/24 – LGBTQIA+ Legislation and its Impact in Government and Schools
3/10/24 – The Role Diversity & Equity Play in the Arts – Angélica Dass
4/14/24 – Cultural Appropriation vs. Appreciation – Naledi Semela
5/5/24 – Making Space for Differing Opinions – Starts with Us
2022 - 2023 Season
9/17/22 – Everyone Wants to Belong: Being an Advocate, Activist, and Accomplice – Charles Vogl, Author
10/15/22 – Representation & Inclusion in Our School Curriculums – Rodney Glasgow, Head of School
11/19/22 – Celebrating LGBTQIA+ Diversity in Our Schools – Schuyler Bailar, Educator, Author, Advocate
1/7/23 – Religious and Spiritual Diversity in Our Schools – Jason Craige Harris, Educator and Facilitator
2/11/23 – Promoting Free Speech and Equality Values – Olatunde Johnson, Legal Scholar
3/11/23 – Banned Books in School – Christine Emeran, Youth Free Expression Director, NCAC
4/22/23 – Young Leaders and Advocates Make a Difference – Ali Michael, Facilitator and Writer
5/13/23 – Celebrating Advocacy: Shining Light on Artists – King David, Artist
2021-2022 Season
10/9/21 – Teen Pollyanna Kick-Off – Jason Craige Harris, facilitator
11/6/21 – Civic Engagement – DeNora Getachew, CEO dosomething.org
12/11/21 – DEIB Work at our Schools – Erica Corbin, Head of School
1/22/22 – Contributions of Others – Marianne Macrae, Robin Hood Foundation
2/12/22 – Be an Advocate, Ally, Activist – Semeka Smith-Williams, DEI Practitioner
3/5/22 – Having Difficult Conversations – Megan Hogan, Chief Diversity Officer Goldman Sachs
4/9/22 – Pledge Projects – Scott Warren, Specialist at USAID
5/14/22 – Reflecting and Planning – Bill Konigsberg, author
To learn more about Pollyanna...
Contact Us: info@pollyanna-us.org