In a secluded area of the Mojave Desert, surrounded by dusty tumbleweeds and spindly Joshua Trees, lies an unusual high school. Here, the educators are convinced that teaching empathy, life skills, and providing a consistent, caring adult presence can empower at-risk students to take control of their futures. On any typical day, Principal Vonda Viland is up at the crack of dawn, calling students to ensure they attend school. If transportation is an issue, she personally offers them a ride. Vonda is deeply familiar with each student’s struggles and supports them relentlessly, without giving them false expectations. Her approach, which blends heartfelt compassion with practical realism, appears to be effective, as evidenced by the school’s improving graduation rates.