Kids from poverty are continually 'Running from Lions' and as long as they are running, there will be no learning. Their lives present challenges and dangers that create a 24/7 hyper-vigilance as they navigate their world trying to survive. Understanding the neurological and biological impact of this life condition is imperative to working with and helping the under-resourced achieve. This fast paced session will examine the role of the limbic system, emotions and the small but mighty amygdala to help keep humans safe from physical and emotional danger and how that role often inhibits cognition, comprehension and memory storage. Topics include: 1) Causes of and biological impacts of an 'amygdala highjack', 2) connections between the amygdala, and incoming stimulus, thoughts, beliefs and actions, 3) how and why to create an emotionally safe environment for kids in poverty 4) Strategies to calm the limbic system and increase focus, retention, engagement and achievement 5) Stress/Cortisol