The chemistry between the cast is tightening here. Jacob’s desperation to be accepted by the veteran teachers is becoming endearing rather than annoying, and Ava’s incompetence is scaled perfectly—she isn't evil, just comically vain and out of touch.

Meanwhile, Melissa (Lisa Ann Walter) and Jacob (Chris Perfetti) clash over the definition of "gifted," leading to one of the funniest cold opens of the season involving a fish named "Sashimi." The B-plot involving Gregory (Tyler James Williams) and the vending machine offers a masterclass in physical comedy, reminding us that Gregory is essentially a straight man slowly losing his mind in the chaos of Philadelphia public schooling.