Host Dominique Johnson-Lindsay sits down with Dr. Lisa Dailey, an Oregon middle school principal with 17 years in education, to explore what it really takes to support students during the most overlooked years in K–12. Dr. Dailey shares her path from math teacher to school leader, her doctoral research centering at-risk middle school youth, and why universal screeners, student voice, and family input must shape campus priorities. They dig into embedding SEL beyond a 20-minute lesson, building true belonging, and preparing brains to learn—especially when trauma walks in the door. Dr. Dailey also breaks down how she protects staff from initiative overload by anchoring every decision to a simple vision: keep students engaged and academically challenged. Finally, she looks ahead to a future where mental health is de-stigmatized, resources are equitable, and every student has doors open after graduation. Perfect for principals, teachers, and anyone passionate about student well-being and instructional excellence.