by Matilda Hawkins ‘27

Paramount in early March released the entirety of the second season of School Spirits. The show follows the main character, Maddie Nears (Peyton List), a teen girl stuck in the afterlife with no recollection of how she died. It turns out that when people die in Split River High, where Maddie attends school and died in, their ghosts remain stuck there with no way to leave. Throughout the first season, with the help of a fellow ghost, she tries to figure out how she died but in the end discovers she was possessed by Janet Hamilton, a ghost from the 1950s. The second season picks up with Nears continuing to figure out the mysteries revolving around her death while continuing to get close with the ghosts who also roam the school she is stuck in. Both seasons contain many plot twists, heartfelt moments, and interesting mysteries. Additionally, the season also ends on a significant cliffhanger, hinting at a probable third season.

While having supernatural parts to make it more interesting, School Spirits also contains relatable content, especially for teenagers. Nears’ backstory explores the subject of familial issues, specifically events pertaining to her mother. Her mother has developed severe alcohol problems, which developed after Nears’ father passed away years before. It results in Nears practically having to take care of her mother, rather than the other way around. Not only is she a character with whom many teenagers can resonate, but the other characters in the show also have the same features. They each have complex backstories and personalities that allow viewers to connect with multiple characters.

Following the relatable aspects of this show, the supernatural and dramatic themes engage the audience at an even deeper level. The idea of these ghosts being trapped in this school with no way out, alongside the living who are constantly trying to figure out how to escape, keeps the audience anticipating more.

School Spirits also contains many cliffhangers, keeping the viewers curious and wanting to continue watching. Not only are the mysteries engaging, but the drama that goes along with them also keeps the audience paying attention– whether it is characters fighting over relatable things or crazy plot twists that continuously shock the viewer. Overall, the show is a great watch for teenagers trying to figure out life’s ups and downs, and who love a good plot twist.

Grade: A+