What Abbott Elementary Teaches Us About Leadership and Organizational Culture

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Here’s this week’s message: I thought I’d take a closer look at what Abbott Elementary can teach all of us - whether your “school” is an actual school, an office, or any group. For starters, I have a circle of family & friends who work in or have retired from education - like myself. And now as summer break comes to an end, faculty and students start to gear up for another year with mixed emotions.

The start of a new school year always brings a certain kind of energy and an organized chaos. It’s filled with all the back-to-school activities, school shopping, backpack giveaways, decorating classrooms, school bus drivers getting acclimated to their routes and in general, more traffic congestion. Those hectic first days heading back to school getting everyone back into the rhythm. Back to life…back to reality! Hey, it’s almost fall, y’all – a pumpkin latte?

At Abbott Elementary, “school” begins on October 1st.. Now in its 5th season, this award-winning show manages to capture the heart, humor, heartaches, and headaches of urban school life! Abbott Elementary offers some entertaining lessons in leadership and organizational culture at an underfunded Philadelphia public school. It offers more than comedy. It’s a masterclass in leadership, emotional maturity, teamwork, and intergenerational connectivity - the human side of running an organization. It also reminds me of my early teaching days at inner-city schools in southcentral Los Angeles in the late 70’s, when many urban school districts paid public school teachers “combat pay” for working in classrooms.

At Abbott, like any other organization, the culture is shaped by its people. Each character is brought to life by a brilliantly talented intergenerational cast. So, here’s my take on what we can learn from each of the cast members. Why? Because we should never stop learning!

Janine Teagues (Quinta Brunson) – The Optimistic Change Agent (Millennial)

Janine is the kind of employee every servant leader wants. As an emerging leader, she is passionate, positive, bright-eyed, and determined to make things better. She sees challenges as new opportunities and believes no obstacle is too big for a creative solution. Janine’s Lesson: Leaders need visionaries, but your vision must be paired with listening skills and patience. Change agents like Janine should bring people along for the journey, not just run ahead with good intentions. Systems change is slow.

Ava Coleman (Janelle James) – The Unconventional (and Sometimes Unprepared) Leader

Principal Ava (Gen X) brings a brassy sense of humor, a strong flair/diva vibe, and a special gift for reading people, that’s for sure! However, Ava often struggles with her professionalism, focus, and reading her audience. Her independence and boldness remind us that charisma can keep the staff engaged and morale high (or in some situations, on pins & needles, holding their breath). Ava’s Lesson: Authenticity matters, but leaders must balance it with accountability. An organizational culture thrives when leaders are relatable, trusting, and responsible.

Barbara Howard (Sheryl Lee Ralph) – The Keeper of Tradition (Baby Boomer)

As a veteran teacher, Barbara represents that institutional knowledge, wisdom, and stability. Barbara values structure, consistency, and doing things “the right way.” Barbara’s Lesson: Every organization needs the history keeper, the people who remember the “why” behind the “how”. But they also need to remain open to new methods, so tradition doesn’t become resistance.

Melissa Schemmenti (Lisa Ann Walter) – The Resourceful Connector (Gen X)

Melissa knows how to get things done, even when resources are scarce. She always seems to have some kind of “hook up”. Her “I know a guy” approach is less about breaking rules and more about leveraging relationships to solve problems. Melissa’s Lesson: Strong networks and resourcefulness are essential leadership tools, and often a faster route to problem-solving.

Jacob Hill (Chris Perfetti) – The Idealistic Collaborator (Millennial/early Gen Z)

Jacob is eager, socially conscious, and wants to bring innovative ideas to the table. And at times like Ava, without fully reading the room. His passionate heart for social justice is matched by his willingness to learn. Jacob’s Lesson: Passion needs to be paired with cultural awareness. Leaders should encourage fresh ideas but coach team members on timing, delivery, and collaboration.

Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams) – The Reluctant Leader with High Standards

Gregory (Millennial) is organized, disciplined, and careful. He’s truly capable of leadership but hesitant to step into the spotlight. Gregory’s Lesson: Leadership potential doesn’t always come from those seeking it. Servant leaders look for emerging leaders with hidden talent and promise - those who don’t seek the spotlight.

Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis) – The Wise Observer (Baby Boomer)

As the school’s janitor and unassuming leader, Mr. Johnson is often seen in the background, but his clever dry wit, unconventional wisdom, and ability to notice what others miss make him this “quiet force”. He reminds us that leadership isn’t tied to titles. Mr. Johnson’s Lesson: Every organization needs its keen observers - those who understand the culture from all levels.

Abbott Elementary shows that organizational culture is a living and complex thing. If you’re building or leading a team, take a page from Abbott Elementary: embrace your Janines, respect your Barbaras and Mr. Johnsons, encourage your Jacobs and Gregorys, and yes, even find solace in the strengths of your Avas! BONUS: Abbott Elementary leadership reflection worksheet!

Weekly wisdom, in their own words:

“I touch the future. I teach.”

Christa McAuliffe (September 2, 1948 – January 28, 1986)