There's something so exciting about the prospect of a new school year. This doesn't really have an adulthood equivalent. Parents get to live it through their children's experiences. Some new clothes, fresh school supplies, and all the possibilities create excitement. Let's not forget what they will learn.
If you are feeling nostalgic and looking for some fresh life lessons of your own, look no further than your favorite TV teachers. Ms. Frizzle can take you on the best field trips ever while Mr. Feeny can impart his stoic wisdom. There's something for everyone on this list.
Ms. Frizzle on ‘The Magic School Bus’
The Magic School Bus was an animated series that originally aired from 1994 to 1997. It's based on the book series of the same name by Joanna Cole and Bruce Degen. The plot centers on the quirky Ms. Frizzle, voiced by Lily Tomlin, and the awesome field trips she takes her students on to learn hands-on science lessons.
A revival of the series premiered on Netflix in 2017. Lily Tomlin revived her role but Ms. Frizzle was promoted to professor. Her younger sister Fiona Felicity Frizzle, voiced by Kate McKinnon, now teaches as well.
Miss Bliss on ‘Saved By the Bell’
Before there was Saved by the Bell, there was Good Morning, Miss Bliss. The series aired for just one season on the Disney Channel and paved the way for its more successful spin-off. The show was later packaged as Saved by the Bell: The Junior High Years. For one season, Miss Bliss, played by Hayley Mills, tried to shape Zack Morris, Samuel "Screech" Powers, and Lisa Turtle into responsible young adults. She had her work cut out for her.
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Mr. Belding on ‘Saved By the Bell’
Miss Bliss did her best but turned things over to the Bayside High School principal, Mr. Belding. Actor Dennis Haskins continued the role on Saved by the Bell. Richard Belding was firm but kind. He balanced being an authority figure with big responsibilities and genuinely caring for his students, even when Zach made that especially difficult. He even named his son Zach after his student helped deliver the baby.
Coach Fredericks on ‘Freaks and Geeks’
Paul Feig and Judd Apatow's Freaks and Geeks only lasted one season on NBC but has a huge cult following. Coach Fredricks, played by Tom Wilson, seemed to understand the difficulties of being a teenager even if he had a hard time expressing his feelings himself.
The coach had his stereotypical jock and macho moments, but he also surprised audiences with his empathy. He had a frank sex talk with a student after they were confused by porn. When he developed feelings for Bill's mom, it was important to him that his student approved.
Mr. Kotter on ‘Welcome Back, Kotter’
The hit sitcom Welcome Back, Kotter aired on ABC for four seasons from 1975 to 1979. The plot centers on Gabe Kotter, played by Gabe Kaplan, who returns to the Brooklyn high school he attended to teach. He takes on the Sweathogs, a group of problem students, and earns their trust. He eventually motivates them to be the best versions of themselves, even though his principal has already written them off. This series was John Travolta's big break.
Mr. Feeny on ‘Boy Meets World’
Mr. Feeny, played by William Daniels, is not only Cory Matthews' teacher but also his neighbor. He is kind of forced to take his work home with him. He eventually becomes Cory's principal. He guides Cory through the many trials of growing up, thanks to his calm wisdom. Everyone would benefit from an educator like him in their lives.
Jessica Day on ‘New Girl’
New Girl ran for seven seasons on Fox and was created by Elizabeth Meriwether. This single-camera comedy focused on Jessica Day, played by Zooey Deschanel, and her new roommates Nick Miller, played by Jake Johnson; Schmidt, played by Max Greenfield; and Coach, played by Damon Wayans Jr.
Jess works as a teacher and is quirky, but this only helps her go the extra mile for her students. She works outside business hours to help her students learn the bells. She displays curiosity over judgment when a middle schooler tries to sabotage the school dance because of lacking a date. She may not be the hippest person, but she has what it takes when it counts.
Lydia Grant on ‘Fame’
Remember her name! Lydia Grant was the dance teacher in both the Fame movie and subsequent television series. This lady with moves played by Debbie Allen made sure her students were prepared for the hard world of professional dance. The Fiorello H. LaGuardia High School of Music & Art and Performing Arts only turned out the finest movers and shakers.
Janine Teagues on ‘Abbot Elementary’
Not only does Quinta Brunson star in Abbott Elementary, but it is also her brainchild. She plays optimistic and hopeful Janine Teagues, a second-grade teacher who is determined to make a difference even if the odds are stacked against her. She works hard despite mismanagement and lack of funding. It's all about the kids.
Tami Taylor on ‘Friday Night Lights’
Tami Taylor is technically not a classroom teacher but affects her students’ lives all the same. She starts out as a guidance counselor, becomes the principal, and ends the series as the dean of admissions at Braemore College in Philadelphia. She is compassionate but firm. She is not afraid to call her students out when she thinks they are not living up to their potential. Just ask Tyra, who went to college because Tami pushed her to do so.
