For students at the fictional Abbott Elementary, the new school year has begun! The ABC comedy series “Abbott Elementary” aired the first episode of its latest season on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The mockumentary style show follows a group of educators who teach at a predominantly Black Philadelphia public elementary school. The show was created by Quinta Brunson who found inspiration in 2018 from her mother’s 40+ years of experience as a school teacher within the public school system. The show touches on the everyday chaos of a public school and coworker relationships, while also bringing attention to issues within the current public school system.
“It was super funny from the start,” Harmony Owens (11) said. “Especially the way they captured the public school environment.”
Following the release of the first season, viewers began to sing high praises. The show became a must watch in houses such as Kalice Woods’ (11), whose mother drew her into watching “Abbott Elementary”. Those who watched the sitcom noted the show’s ability to talk about important social issues in a light-hearted but meaningful way. It demonstrated the ability to highlight educators, emphasizing that they are pillars of guidance that provide support and mentorship to the youth in their communities, especially communities that are underfunded and underrepresented. Those who tuned in found “Abbot Elementary” to be a humorous, comforting show that dramatized the experience of teachers, students and even parents who navigate the public school community on a daily basis.
“My first impression of the show was just kind of like the humor in it … like how the characters were so funny,” Woods said. “And also my mom was a school teacher so I [kind of] know the life of a school teacher … it’s kind of accurate … it’s really over the top sarcastic.”
Many fans were also hooked on the romantic subplot that involved main characters Janine Teagues and Gregory Eddie. Watchers were introduced to the couple when Janine mistaked new substitute teacher Gregory for being a child predator. Since season one, fans have tuned into the back-and-forth flirtatious but sometimes awkward banter between the two. The show developed a well-received slow burn between the two teachers that finally resulted in a coupling that will continue to be explored in the current season.
“I’m a big person on romance … I just love [Janine and Gregory] so much,” Woods said.
Others such as Alexandria King (10) used the show as a tool for insight into a future career in education. King found elements of Brunson’s character to be both inspirational and insightful, as her portrayal of Janine highlighted the important characteristics needed to become a teacher.
“[Janine] is really bubbly, really nice … she is willing to do anything for her students,” King said. “The way she is [a] ride-or-die for the people at her school and she advocates for change. She wants to see change and she wants to see better for her community. She just doesn’t give up until the job is done.”
As “Abbot Elementary” continues to develop its distinct identity, it continues to gain recognition in the world of television and media. The show and its crew that brings this story to life have earned 24 nominations and four awards from various organizations such as the Golden Globes, the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People, the Emmys and the Critics’ Choice Awards. With its growing acclaim, audiences look forward to future seasons and further character development.
“It definitely got the attention it deserved,” King said. “I’m proud of Quinta.”
