Yahoo Autos "Abbott Elementary" Is Comedic Genius, But Here Are 20 Times It Pointed Out The Realities Of Public School Systems
ABC's Abbott Elementary is one of the most popular television shows out right now! At the same time, they are bringing a comedic light to the things that actually occur in public schools. Although the characters bring us laughs each week, many of the punchlines are based on actual life events.
Creator, star of the show, and BuzzFeed alum Quinta Brunson has struck gold, winning several awards for the series and its actors. And, yes, Brunson has mastered the art of infusing hilarious moments in the show — one can't help but notice the massive problems and underfunded issues public schools face in America.
As a product of the public school system, I personally resonate with many of the stories in Abbott Elementary. Let's look at some moments where Brunson made us sit back and think hard about what's happening in educational communities across the nation:
1.It's not all bad...
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Many underfunded schools may need more resources than some others. However, they are not void of good, quality teachers. Janine Teagues is a shining example of the optimism of dedicated educators.
2....however, leadership can sometimes be a problem.
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Amid all the good, there will be a hint of sour. In the school system, you may have some faculty and staff who need to live up to the full potential of their role. Principal Ava is a prime example. Several examples prove that she cares, but you have to look deep, deep within.
3.Meeting the children where they are can be critically important to how they receive and absorb knowledge.
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When dealing with students who may have their share of challenges at home, added to the fact that there are sometimes fewer resources to support their learning needs, getting creative with instruction and engagement is vital to comprehension, development, and trust.
4.Funding is a core issue.
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Money isn't the answer for every problem in the world, but it sure does make things a lot easier, especially in the school system. Funds for books, project materials, and learning aids create a more robust learning environment that makes learning easier. Also, more funds for schools also address the deferred maintenance needs many public schools face. But in many cases, faculty and staff are left with using their creativity, personal income, and ingenuity to make what little they do have be the best it can be.
5.Sometimes, the pressure piles up.
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Honesty is a virtue, but honesty can mean also admitting that things are tough. And that is a challenging realization. Teachers deal with a lot, and when little is not enough, going back to the drawing board is the only other option. Mr. Eddie will not hold back the truth. He's a realist and brings it to every facet of his job.
6.Starting from scratch may not always be a bad thing. It sparks creativity and gets the job done.
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Whether it's a lack of materials for a science experiment or limited access to materials, creativity fills the gap. Teachers often figure out ways to give their students the best without making them feel like they're missing out. Have you seen what Ms. Teagues has come up with for her students?
7.Underfunded schools are not void of talent.
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One common misconception is that underfunded schools are underperforming and need to have the caliber of students of more elite institutions. This could not be further from the truth. A person's background is partially indicative of their learning capacity or giftedness. History has consistently shown people who came from little can still rise to the top. And most of this can be credited, in significant part, to educators like those represented at Abbott.
8.Let's keep it a buck, many underfunded schools are in Black and brown communities.
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There is no need to beat around the bush here. Black and brown students are disproportionately affected by the lack of investment in public schools. We won't go down the laundry list of reasons this is the case, but know there were and are intentional laws, policies, and actors in place that caused this outcome. The solution is layered, but the practical steps include a dream team of teachers.
9.Speaking of predominately Black schools, representation matters.
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In a world where lawmakers are doubting and burying historical facts (I am looking at you, DeSantis), showing students shining examples of their potential is essential. Inspiration often comes from visible models, acknowledgement, and acceptance of historical truths.
10.Still, there are some that are down for the cause even when their ethnic background is different.
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