Emmy Winner Quinta Brunson Returns to West Philly School for Mural Celebration, Key to City

The creator of "Abbott Elementary" is coming back to where it all began. Quinta Brunson will receive Philadelphia's Key to the City at Andrew Hamilton School on May 28, where a beautiful new mural celebrates her West Philly education story.

The ABC star has two big moments lined up that day. While Mayor Cherelle Parker presents the city's highest honor, Mural Arts Philadelphia will show off "Blooming Futures" - a colorful public artwork that brings the school's spirit to life-designed by Brunson.

"It's going to be an amazing day. It's legacy," Principal Dr. Torrence Rothmiller told 6ABC.

The mural shows students as growing plants, with their teachers caring for the garden. Eighth-grader Glory Melton got emotional seeing herself on the wall. "I don't know what to say... It's really overwhelming to be up there. It's a feeling that you can't actually explain," she shared.

Brunson keeps climbing higher. She won Emmy Awards in 2022 and 2023, plus a Golden Globe in 2023 for her hit show. Time magazine picked her as one of 2022's most influential people.

The mural came together through teamwork. Art teacher Gabriel Neeld pointed out how students, parents, staff, and neighbors all pitched in.

"So much happiness, joy," smiled Assistant Principal Asmeret Easley.

Growing up in West Philly as the youngest of five kids, Brunson found her inspiration watching her mom teach kindergarten. That led to creating "Abbott Elementary," and she still keeps close connections with local schools.

On TV, she plays second-grade teacher Janine Teagues - a character she created, produces, and writes. Through Janine, audiences see the same passion that drives real Philly teachers.

Brunson, on a recent Jimmy Kimmel Live appearance, reconnected with the teacher whom she named the show after.