The underlying principle of the SDGs is to leave no one behind. This should be a hallmark of national recovery efforts. To realize the concept of ‘building back better,’ we need a foundation. That foundation is education (SDG4). As long as education is considered a ‘lesser priority’ in crises, the vicious cycle of inequity and its consequences will continue. We must lay a solid foundation to build back better. The SDGs and particularly, SDG4 will be vital for a truly sustainable recovery, more inclusive economies, and stronger, more resilient societies.