This policy brief explores possible paths forward for policy makers in Brazil seeking to enhance quality and equity in lower secondary education. Drawing on analysis of OECD data, international policy examples, and insights from the Policy Dialogues in Focus seminars, the brief covers three key topics: 1) Strengthening learners’ resilience, by listening and responding to their needs; 2) Empowering resilient educators, to balance change and innovation with ongoing needs; 3) Supporting learners’ transitions, through their learning pathways. Building on the OECD’s Framework for Responsiveness and Resilience in Education Policy, these Policy Dialogues in Focus seminars from the Education Policy Outlook brought together federal and subnational policy makers, civil society actors and researchers in Brazil as well as policy makers from Chile, Colombia and Spain.