Title
Honoring and celebrating trailblazing writer, actor, and comedian Quinta Brunson for her creation of Abbott Elementary, an innovative, hilarious Black and woman-led sitcom that sheds light on the joy, struggle, dedication, and resilience of Philadelphia teachers and school communities.
Body
WHEREAS, Quinta Brunson's Abbott Elementary-a sitcom set in a fictional Philadelphia school that unabashedly highlights so many of the real-world challenges that Philadelphia schools face today-premiered on ABC on December 7, 2021. It has since taken the television world by storm, drawing comparisons to legendary comedies and bringing laughter and thought-provoking conversations about the state of public education to millions of viewers across the country; and
WHEREAS, Abbott Elementary features the experiences of a group of dedicated public school educators and the challenges they face as they come together to give their students the educational experience they deserve. Creator Quinta Brunson writes, executive produces, and stars as Janine Teagues, a bright-eyed second grade teacher determined to do everything she can for her students. Philadelphia icon Sheryl Lee Ralph also stars as veteran kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard, whose steady hand and heart reminds her colleagues that, in the face of harsh realities, a loving commitment to students and their families is essential; and
WHEREAS, Abbott Elementary showcases the varied and diverse lives of Black educators and school staff at a critical time when Black teacher recruitment and school staffing is at its most urgent; and
WHEREAS, Abbott Elementary embodies the Philadelphia spirit. From Eagles and University of Pennsylvania banners on the classroom walls, to colorful and striking murals outside the school building, to a tribute to legendary news anchor Jim Gardner, Abbott Elementary shows the world the heart and grit of our City; and
WHEREAS, Brunson is a Philadelphia native and the daughter of a 40-yea...
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