Rural adolescents are at a greater risk for substance abuse and other mental health challenges. There is a need for enhanced evidence-based prevention efforts. This case study evaluated both remote and in-person instruction of "Second Step®", a social-emotional learning (SEL) curriculum aimed to improve school-based prevention efforts. "Second Step®" was implemented in a rural Midwestern middle school from Fall 2020 to Spring 2022. Pre- and post-surveys were given to 7th grade (n = 233) and 8th grade (n = 146) students. To evaluate program implementation, t-tests were conducted. Post-survey scores were compared to evaluate remote versus in-person learning. Seventh grade students showed significant improvement of self-efficacy in overcoming obstacles, and this was expanded via in-person instruction. Eighth grade students increased knowledge of identifying and disrupting bullying, and the goal-setting unit showed more success taught via remote instruction. "Second Step®" shows promise in increasing self-efficacy and knowledge of SEL topics. Exploratory results suggest both in-person and remote implementation should be considered.