Janelle James, who plays the self-absorbed but surprisingly dedicated principal Ava Coleman on Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary , knows that the show faces a distinct challenge as a network sitcom that consistently shines a light on the concerns that plague low-income schools. It has to be funny, of course, and family-friendly without distracting from the social issues it tackles on an almost episodic basis, like constant funding problems, the kids’ home lives, and even recreational drug use. Here, James shares how she’s spent the past three seasons getting to know Ava, a character with a lot more going on than meets the eye.

DEADLINE: How do you feel Ava and your portrayal of the character have evolved over the past three seasons?

JANELLE JAMES: She’s more diverse. She’s gone from a more goofy character to maybe a more rounded, believable person. This season, especially with the opener, her more serious demeanor gives her a different flavor. Her having to stand up for her employee Barbara this season. She’s been less antagonistic this season and more on the side of the teachers and students at Abbott, so that was a new twist for her this season.

DEADLINE: Do you think that first episode confirmed to Ava that the teachers had had enough of her strictness so quickly?