Last month, a Westridge group including students, parents, faculty, administrators, and alumnae attended the ninth annual Pollyanna Conference—an interactive conference focused on improving inclusion within school communities and the understanding that diversity enhances all elements of the community. This year’s theme, “Minds of All Kinds: Inclusive Learning, Limitless Possibilities,” encouraged attendees to share insights about celebrating and supporting neurodiversity. Three Westridge students—seniors Kristin C. and Makayla W. and 8th grader Vivienne P.—participated in groups with peers from a variety of local schools, discussing how their schools are currently supporting neurodiverse students, identifying where there is room to grow, and brainstorming ideas for schools to improve their support, reduce stigma, and increase awareness around neurodiversity. Students also took to the stage as panelists, answering questions from adults in the audience about their experience and their ideas. 

"It was so impressive to see [Vivienne] sitting in front of adults and answering their questions," says Dean of Student Voices Julia Davis, who attended the Middle School panel. "She did a great job of talking about being a "safe space" for kids, and how you can't claim to be a safe space without actually checking in with a kid to know what they need in order to feel safe."

After the presentations, the Westridge "pod" came together to discuss the insights they took away from the conference, how they relate specifically to Westridge, and draft goals for the school.