"Abbott Elementary"

Television, with all of its stories, has rarely been able to tell a good tale of teachers and schools.  The previous attempts have been too slapstick ("Bad Teacher") or too melodrama ("Room 222").  Until now.  "Abbott Elementary" does the impossible.  It takes the banal day-to-day, and using "The Office" mockumentary style, makes it funny.  But it also is grounded in something real.  Very real.  Huge credit here goes to creator and lead actor Quinta Brunson who has made something so authentic it reminds me of myself in those early years.  An idealistic new teacher hoping to change the world and jump in at every opportunity.  (The series also does a nice job of showing what teachers are like after they suffer through a few years -- still committed but very aware of the limitations of their roles).  I have laughed out loud, episode after episode, not only because of the funny but because of the recognition.  Yes, there are principals like this, broken schools and a lack of funding.  It's ironic, touching and maybe just a bit sad.  But I get it.  For the first time ever, I really do.  Worth watching, particularly at a time when teachers are feeling unappreciated.