Abbott Elementary is back with a fun and engaging episode titled The Science Fair. This is Season 4, Episode 13, and the staff is ready to showcase the talents of their students. The focus is on kids this time, giving young actors a chance to shine. The show’s creators prioritize uplifting Black talent, and this episode allows these young stars to display their comedic skills and timing. It’s a rare opportunity for them to build their acting portfolios in a landscape where kid-centered shows are getting less attention.

In this episode, we see Courtney grow from the chaotic kid we met in Season 1 to a more mature, clever version of herself. She decides to turn the science fair into a social experiment, playing coy about her plans. Meanwhile, the teachers can’t help but turn the event into a competitive showdown. Mr. Morton, the school’s science expert, takes charge of the fair. He’s experienced some personal challenges, like going through another divorce, which adds an interesting layer to his character. The tension builds as the teachers realize they might be more invested in the event than they should be.
The competition heats up when Ava steps in to supervise a student named Tyree. She’s determined to help him with his water filtration project, which he finds inspiring thanks to an upcoming camping trip. The episode delves into Ava’s backstory, exploring her feelings about her father, adding depth to her character while also showing her growth as a mentor.
As the science fair progresses, other teachers, like Melissa and Janine, get competitive too, overshadowing their students’ ideas. They think they know better what will impress the judges, leading to clash after clash among the staff. Even classroom projects are put under scrutiny, with the judges trying to maintain high standards while the kids attempt to express their original ideas.
In the end, the teachers realize they’ve taken the competition too far. They step back, allowing the students to shine on their own. Courtney steps into the spotlight, suggesting that the kids should judge the science fair themselves. The students rally together, showcasing their creativity, while the teachers learn a valuable lesson in humility.
This episode really emphasizes the importance of letting children take the lead and express their ideas. We see growth from both the students and the staff as they navigate the ups and downs of competition. It’s a perfect blend of humor and heart, reminding us that sometimes, the best lessons come from letting kids be kids.
Here are some standout moments from the episode:
- Ava’s funny take on needing permission to be a nerd: “I can’t believe you need permission to be a nerd.”
- Ava expressing fatigue over men chatting: “I am so tired of men talking to each other.”
- Barbara’s perfect line: “You are tap-dancing on my last nerve, and I don’t like the choreography.”
The character development and witty writing in this episode solidify why Abbott Elementary continues to be a fan favorite, delivering laughs while also addressing deeper themes of mentorship, growth, and the importance of children’s voices.
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