Abbott Elementary S01e09 Aiff May 2026

In the pantheon of Abbott Elementary ’s flawless first season, Episode 9—“Step by Step”—stands as the moment the show fully commits to its most chaotic force: Principal Ava Coleman. While earlier episodes used Ava as a punchline (the TikTok-obsessed, embezzling administrator who’d rather nap than lead), this episode transforms her into a genuine antagonist, then shockingly, into something almost vulnerable. It’s a 22-minute masterclass in cringe comedy, workplace ethics, and the surprising power of a well-timed documentary crew.

While Ava dominates, the rest of the cast gets stellar moments. Janine’s attempt to “help” Ava edit her film—suggesting title cards and a “learning objective”—is peak Quinta Brunson earnestness. Gregory’s deadpan critique (“You can’t solve budget cuts with a dance break, Ms. Coleman”) lands perfectly. And the final scene, where the teachers reluctantly agree to screen a different student film (a sweet, boring documentary about pencils), ends with Ava whispering to Janine, “Next year, I’m adding explosions.” It’s a promise and a threat. abbott elementary s01e09 aiff

The B-plot follows Jacob attempting to help his students produce a historically accurate documentary about the school’s founding, only to realize that Abbott Elementary’s history is mostly “a series of broken boilers and one raccoon infestation.” Meanwhile, Melissa and Barbara—the veteran Greek chorus—exchange weary glances that say more than any script could. Their silent judgment of Ava’s antics is comedy gold, especially when Barbara mutters, “She’s going to get us all on a list.” In the pantheon of Abbott Elementary ’s flawless

One of the strongest outings of Season 1, essential viewing for anyone who’s ever worked under a bizarre boss, and proof that Abbott isn’t just a funny school sitcom—it’s a sharp, empathetic look at how we show up for each other, even when we’re showing up badly. While Ava dominates, the rest of the cast