By Amber Trimber
As the Writers Guild of America strikes seem to be coming to a tentative agreement with their employers, more shows and movies will be able to air or release within the next few weeks. One of these shows that was unable to air during the strike was Abbott Elementary, a mockumentary show that mirrors The Office and Parks and Recreation, which takes place in a Philadelphian public school. The air date typically begins when public schools start again (early September) but now the show might not air until closer to the end of 2023 or the beginning of 2024.
Quinta Brunson, the show’s creator, writer, and producer, was born and raised in Philadelphia, which is why the show has been so successful in the area. She based the show on her mother’s own career as an elementary school teacher and has based the character of Barbara, the kindergarten teacher who is Brunson’s character’s mentor in the show, on her mother.
Each season of Abbott Elementary has held a particular theme within the storyline of each other characters. Season one dealt with the underfunding of public schools in cities and the disparities that come with that. Season two dealt with the rise of charter school companies taking over these underfunded public schools and how charter schools push out underprivileged children. Brunson has made sure that her show is funny and witty, but also showcases real issues that real public schools face all across the United States. Assuming that this underlying theme of issues in American public schools continues, season three will probably discuss another very real, very serious issue.
Season two left its audience wanting more, especially through the situation-ship that Janine and Gregory find themselves in. Though it was obvious to all of the other characters and the audience that they were in love with each other, they decided to remain friends so that Janine could focus on her personal growth both in and out of the classroom. Though it is frustrating to watch two very clearly in love characters avoid their relationship, the message of focusing on yourself when you need to is something that can be admired.
Conflicts within the other characters will be interesting to watch as well. Will Barbara retire? Will Melissa have to teach second and third grade again? Will Ava keep her job as principal? Will Jacob finally be considered a “cool” teacher?
There are many great things to look forward to for season three of the Philadelphia-based show, Abbott Elementary.
