Sheryl Lee Ralph’s Barbara Howard serves as the show’s moral center. Initially presented as the "grumpy veteran," Barbara quickly reveals herself to be the guardian of standards. Unlike the caricature of the burnt-out teacher, Barbara loves her job. Her resistance to Janine’s new ideas is not born of malice, but of experience. The "mismatched duo" dynamic between Janine and Barbara drives much of the season's emotional arc, culminating in the "Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist" homage episode, where Barbara finally vocalizes her respect for Janine’s persistence.