Racial Unity Team, Phillips Exeter Academy, and SAU16 will partner to host an opportunity for participants to engage in community dialogue. In today’s national climate—marked by political polarization, social unrest, and cultural division—community dialogue is more important than ever. We hope to offer a space where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to listen, share, and understand one another beyond headlines or stereotypes. We will offer a series of facilitated small group conversations on various topics relevant to the Seacoast community and beyond. All are welcome! Please sign up using the QR code.

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Students from the EHS Roots & Wings Club joined SAU 16's Chief Equity Officer, Arlynn Polletta, to offer a presentation titled Dialogue Across Differences: Strategies for Navigating Conversations on Challenging Topics for residents at RiverWoods in Exeter. Participants were introduced to the key components of dialogue and practiced their skills in small group activities facilitated by students. The event was hosted by the Inclusivity Committee at RiverWoods, and we hope to continue this multigenerational partnership in the future.

Exeter, NH – July 9, 2024 – Dr. Esther Asbell, Superintendent of Schools, is pleased to announce the appointment of Arlynn Polletta as the new Chief Equity Officer in SAU 16. With a distinguished career in equity and inclusion, Arlynn brings a wealth of experience to this pivotal role.

Arlynn Polletta has a broad background in non-profit organizations, K-12 schools, and higher education settings. Currently, she serves as the Director of Equity, Inclusion & Outreach at The Aloha Foundation, where she leads numerous initiatives, including developing long-term strategic goals, designing staff trainings, creating inclusive programming for youth, spearheading outreach efforts, and mentoring the Equity & Inclusion Fellowship Team.

In addition to her work at The Aloha Foundation, Arlynn co-founded the Liberation Learning Collective, which provides Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Justice educational consulting across New England. She also serves as a Master Instructor for Northern Lights at Community College of Vermont, leading the Exploring Anti-Bias Education series.

Arlynn's educational credentials include an Ed.S. in Social Justice Education from the University of Massachusetts Amherst, an M.A. in Theatre Education & Applied Theatre from Emerson College, and a B.A. in English Literature & Theatre/Movement Studies from Manhattanville College. Her experience at UMass Amherst includes facilitating student-led initiatives for underrepresented students and supporting the Center for Racial Justice and Youth Engaged Research.

Previously, Arlynn worked as the Equity & Inclusion Coordinator at Pingree School, where she collaborated with faculty to develop inclusive curricula and training programs. Her earlier roles include Associate Program Director at Charles River Creative Arts Program, where she supervised staff and managed outreach programs.

Arlynn Polletta's work focuses on advocating for youth agency, creating inclusive programming, and building coalitions to address inequitable systems. She is dedicated to centering student voice and supporting communities in reimagining educational possibilities.

“We are excited to welcome Arlynn to our team,” said Dr. Asbell. “Her extensive experience and dedication to equity and inclusion will be invaluable as we continue to strive toward our Vision of a Graduate and foster a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all students.”

SAU 16 creates and sustains a trusting, diverse, inclusive school community where all are welcomed, valued, and empowered. We prioritize equitable school experiences and outcomes for all learners through anti-oppressive mindsets and curriculum that centers around positive identity development, empathy, and justice in stewardship of our global community.

Please click here to read the SAU 16 Anti-Discrimination Plan in its entirety.

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