Carolyn McKanders, educator, international facilitator and author, reflected on the impact of the pandemic. “It is paramount to attend to students' well-being holistically by crafting a safe environment, utilizing trauma informed instruction, recognizing learning differences, and partnering with families. Building adaptive systems enables schools to meet the needs of students, staff and the community, and creates cultures which celebrate the diversity of who you are, how you are and your personal strengths, enhancing both individual and group efficacy. Current social issues where polarity exists are complex and need to be managed for good outcomes. For conversations with tensions: pause, paraphrase, begin with “and” to add your ideas or a different perspective, to collectively create better solutions.”