It's been a while since a mainstream network sitcom felt as alive and accomplished as this ABC mockumentary from creator and star Quinta Brunson. Focused on the trials and tribulations of a group of overworked educators at an underfunded Philadelphia school, the show impressed right out of the blocks when it first premiered last December – and with this autumn's second season, it has continued to keep sweetness and sharpness, sitcom hijinks and social commentary, in perfect balance. At September's Emmys, it picked up three wins from seven nominations, including for Brunson and Sheryl Lee Ralph as the fabulously battle-hardened kindergarten teacher Barbara Howard, but I'd expect a veritable sweep of awards coming its way soon enough. (HM)
