Drake, Melanie2025-06-242025-06-242025-05-24Journal of Cases in Educational Leadership, ISSN: 1555-4589 (Print); 1555-4589 (Online), SAGE Publications. doi: 10.1177/155545892513418171555-45891555-4589http://hdl.handle.net/10292/19356This case explores the leadership journey of a new principal, Miss Joel, in a historically segregated South African primary school. Navigating systemic inequities and diverse stakeholder expectations, Miss Joel leverages community engagement and crisis response to drive transformation. The case highlights tensions between tradition and inclusion, the challenges of confronting long-standing biases, and the opportunities for growth through transformative leadership. This case invites global educational leaders to explore equity, inclusion, and adaptive leadership strategies within complex historical legacies.© The Author(s) 2025. Open Access. CC BY-NC 4.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc/4.0/1303 Specialist Studies in Education3904 Specialist studies in educationJournal ArticleOpenAccess10.1177/15554589251341817