Abbott Elementary Season 4, Episode 6 Review: A Look at “The Deli"

"Abbott Elementary" continues its sterling fourth season with Episode 6, "The Deli," giving fans a vibrant mix of comedy, community activism and character development.

Airing on November 13, 2024, this episode captures the heart and complexity of maintaining a cherished school environment while dealing with neighborhood changes.

The episode begins with a man from the golf course visiting the school, he complains about students, including Abbott's, playing in the golf club construction zone. He believes Abbott students are "disturbingly influential.” The teachers, seeing an opportunity, propose a deal for new games and equipment for the school in exchange for assuring the kids stop.

Chad, a student, approached Janitor J for a social studies career project and decided to shadow him. While, one of Janie's students Nate, has a habit of eating paper, including books and almost any paper he can get his hand on to. Janie wonders if he is struggling with anxiety.

Since taking over Abbott, Principal Ava Coleman has excelled in her leadership role. Under her guidance, the school has seen better attendance, higher test scores and improved after-school programs.

Recognizing her success, district representative Manny offers her a chance to speak at a Philadelphia School District Ed Talk. Initially, Ava confidently declines Manny's offer since it’s unpaid.

However, after her colleagues encouraged her to take advantage of this opportunity, she is now happily working on her speech for the event. Ava feels validated and appreciated that the district values her so highly they want the "Ava-lanche."

Meanwhile, Melissa and Barbara are about to lose their favorite local deli to gentrification in their neighborhood.

The deli owner warns them about the changing neighborhood dynamics. Upset by this news, Jacob proposes mobilizing the community to save the deli. While enjoying "the best hoagies in West Philly" at the deli, Jacob, Barbara and Melissa scramble to gain support from organizations and councils to protect the community and their local businesses.

However, Barbara and Melissa become distracted by the perks of gentrification, including a trendy new smoothie spot. This switch-up disappoints Jacob, leaving him frustrated with everyone.

This episode portrays the teachers' attempt to get community support. Simultaneously, they wrestle with the temptations of gentrification, illustrated by their amusing attraction to the new smoothie shop.

Gregory is happy about these changes as he’s gained an addiction for a specific 16-ounce banana nut shreds with extra bee pollen smoothie.

Jacob, who led the protest against the deli's closure, ironically contradicts himself by enjoying treats from the very smoothie shop that threatens the deli. The other teachers find out that he fished an acai bowl from the trash and loved it, which gets Gregory excited.

Ava faces her own challenges with Manny's concerns about her ability to deliver the Ed Talk appropriately or in her words meant she was being “too hood.” Feeling frustrated with facing the same reaction from others, Ava is ready to give up.

However, Janie intervenes and helps Ava see her own strengths, and encourages her to keep trying. Ava’s success in the Ed Talk is both a personal victory and explores the untapped potential within her role.

After all the community efforts, the deli owner announces his landlord initiating a renewal of his lease. The community’s collective efforts helped preserve a neighborhood favorite, reinforcing the power of local activism.

During his time with Janitor J, Chad learned key lessons: always sweep before mopping, expect some chaos, and always wear gloves. His report was a success, leaving Janitor J pleased with the experience.

Following Ava's advice, Janie provides Nate with edible paper, which effectively curbs his habit. These side stories provide great laughs while seamlessly tying into the episode’s broader themes of mentorship and adaptation.

"The Deli" showcases Ava's nature as a leader, combining great accomplishments with a funny side including their new games gifted by the people at the golf course. This episode captures the core of "Abbott Elementary," blending community resilience with personal growth.

Episode 7 airs on Dec. 4, 2024, with new episodes premiering every Wednesday.

Rating: 9/10

Gabrielle Marston is a third-year student majoring in broadcast journalism. To contact her, please email gmm6030@psu.edu.