When the staff relates their needs, Principal Ava presents alternative options.

Janine takes it upon herself to fix every problem when she notices a flicking light bulb in the hallway. Gregory asks Barbara for help talking to a parent, which leads him to spend his lunch period in an unexpected way.

The teachers are back for development week, a time to prepare for the upcoming year. Janine is determined to start the year off right and leave her problems at home. Ava runs a side hustle out of the school parking lot.

It's a new year at Abbott Elementary, and Janine is as eager as ever. She plans a district-wide initiative - Career Day - and is anxious for it to be a success. Meanwhile, Ava has a new approach to her job, and Melissa is asked a surprising question.