Warning: SPOILERS for Abbott Elementary season 4, episode 21. The latest episode of Abbott Elementary has brought closure to a significant conflict, yet it also illuminated a missed opportunity for the mockumentary series. Created by Quinta Brunson, who stars as the optimistic Janine Teagues, the show also features an ensemble cast of dedicated teachers including Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph), Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter), Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), and Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti), all working under the unconventional guidance of Principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James). However, season 4, episode 18, posed a substantial threat to the status quo.
After Ava bravely took the blame for a bribery scandal involving a local golf course, she was dismissed by the school district. In her absence, Gregory stepped in as an interim principal, but the school greatly missed Ava’s distinctive leadership. Following a stand against the district by Janine, Melissa, Barbara, and Jacob in episode 21, they faced a week-long suspension, and Ava’s reinstatement was adamantly denied. In a turn for the better, student protests and community action ultimately pressured the district to reconsider its decisions.
Barbara and Melissa’s Unexpected Reactions Post-Suspension
Conquering the District Comes at a Cost
The closing scenes of episode 21, which celebrated the triumph of collective effort, took on a bittersweet tone as it became clear that veteran teachers Barbara and Melissa were somewhat disappointed. Despite the joyous atmosphere, they were secretly eager for a break from their demanding routines, choosing to have Tariq (Zack Fox), a PTA member without teaching obligations, supervise their class while they relaxed nearby. Their relief at the community’s victory over the harsh district policies was palpable, yet the longing for a week off was equally evident.
This humorous portrayal subtly critiques the overworked nature of educators, moving away from their initial outrage over suspension. Barbara’s frustration was evident when she noted that, despite her extensive teaching career, she had never faced disciplinary action before. With hints at her possible retirement, it is clear that the series is not ready to let her character step away just yet. Nevertheless, it is clear that both Barbara and her colleagues certainly deserve a moment to recharge.
Why Abbott Elementary Needs a Summer Vacation Episode
Possibilities for Future Special Episodes
One effective way to explore the cast further would be through a dedicated summer vacation episode. Although the show has previously ventured beyond the school setting, it has yet to explore the teachers’ lives during the summer months. While winter break episodes like “Holiday Hookah” and “Winter Break” have been featured, an episode specifically set in the summer would offer a refreshing perspective on the characters away from the classroom.
Such an episode could cleverly highlight aspects of the teachers’ personal lives. A low-stakes storyline could involve a summer pool party or cooking event, similar to Ava’s date night in season 4, episode 17. The plot could also tie back to education by having a character teach summer school, creating a storyline where they struggle to balance their teaching responsibilities with summer fun. Although the concept is straightforward, its execution would prove more complicated.
Understanding the Series’ Focus on the Academic Year
Aligning with the School Calendar
While a summer episode would be a delightful addition, it seems unlikely due to the show’s adherence to a realistic academic calendar. Traditional network television tends to premiere in fall and conclude in spring, allowing for a summer hiatus to regroup for the next season. Abbott Elementary is intentionally crafted to align with the school year, as Quinta Brunson explained during an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!:
“Abbott is a show where we try to go by the school calendar, you know? We start in September along with teachers, and we like to stick to that calendar.”
Despite this, there are creative ways to introduce a summer-themed episode without disrupting the overarching school structure. For instance, airing a special episode during July or August could serve as a nice way to link the show back to the regular season, even offering a recap of previous events to ease viewers back into the story. Regardless of timing, a fun summer episode could provide much-needed levity and insight into the personal lives of the characters we have grown to love.
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Sources: Jimmy Kimmel Live/YouTube.
Abbott Elementary continues its run every Wednesday on ABC.