Quinta Brunson teases Abbott Elementary season 5 themes including ChatGPT and teacher challenges

Abbott Elementary closed out its fourth season with a heartfelt field trip to Philadelphia’s Please Touch Museum. While the kids explored hands-on exhibits, the emotional core of the finale centered on Janine (Quinta Brunson) meeting Gregory’s (Tyler James Williams) father, Martin (Orlando Jones), for the first time. Tensions arose as Gregory wrestled with childhood memories of his father’s strictness, but the encounter helped him gain empathy and deepen his bond with Janine.

Brunson, who also created the hit ABC sitcom, said the finale highlighted her goal of showing “a healthy relationship between two Black characters.” She emphasized that Janine and Gregory’s romance was written to feel grounded and uplifting without artificial drama. “We really didn’t want to mine for problems,” she told Variety.

Meanwhile, Ava (Janelle James) stepped into new territory as she navigated a romantic moment with O’Shon (Matthew Law). Brunson hinted that fans will see more of O’Shon in Season 5, and celebrated Ava’s transformation from a polarizing figure to a fan favorite — one that she hopes earns James an Emmy nod.

The finale also touched on the bittersweet experience of teachers watching their students grow up and move on. A student-written play that lovingly roasted the Abbott staff served as both a tribute and reminder of the show’s heart.

Looking ahead, Brunson teased more character growth, including Gregory meeting Janine’s mom and possible storylines on how politics, technology, and tools like ChatGPT are changing education. “I’m talking to teacher friends to see what’s really going on,” she said. “We have a fast-changing world… and I’m excited to get back to the writers’ room.”