In today’s world, there is such a wide variety of streaming platforms and different media options that finding a good show can be quite the task. But one of the year’s best shows may not be on a streaming platform, but instead on basic cable.

Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary-style sitcom that follows the lives of teachers at a poorly-funded, predominantly Black, public school in Philadelphia. The show stars Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues, a new, bubbly, second-grade teacher with seemingly endless positivity. Her coworkers include Jacob Hill(Chris Perfetti), an awkward 6th grade history teacher, Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph), a old-school kindergarten teacher, Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter), another experienced second-grade teacher with many questionable connections, Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams), a substitute that was hired after he was rejected from the principal position, and Ava Coleman (Janelle James), the new principal who is wildly unqualified and never seems to taker her job seriously.

Abbott Elementary is not only funny, it also demonstrates the day to day lives of public school teachers. Each teacher has their own unique style of teaching, but they all work together to create the best learning environment for their students. The individual character’s lives are also engaging, with unaccepting parents, broken sibling ties, strong friendships, and a slow burn romance to rival Jim and Pam. But what I enjoy most about Abbott is the way it showcases the challenges that public schools face, from a lack of funding to the rise of charter schools. 

Abbott Elementary is available to watch on ABC, HBO Max, fuboTV, and YouTube TV. The show is a great family option, with only minor swearing and a sense of humor that both parents and kids will enjoy. Both hilarious and impactful, Abbott Elementary is one of the best shows currently available.