JFK vs. Bayside
Which is the better school in your mind, JFK Jr. High (Miss Bliss) or Bayside (Bell)?
Pros for Bayside:
+ California, sun, and beaches
+ The Maxx
+ Slater, Jesse, and Kelly in the student body
+ More colorful and entertaining students. The side cast actually draws attention to itself by their appearance and way of doing things.
+ Presented more from a teen perspective
Cons:
- All classrooms and hallways are recycled, but unlike Miss Bliss, it doesn't just focus on one class/teacher.
- Principal's office is just a room accessible by the main hallway.
- No exterior shots, outside of the "stop the oil" episode, and the Vegas Wedding movie.
- A cafeteria that is hardly ever used, in favor of the Maxx. About the only time it gets mention/attention is when they are using foam cups ("Cut Day") or some goofy announcement or reference.
- School just seems to be run by 6 main student characters.
Pros for JFK:
+ Though it is a Jr. High School, it is presented with a more "adult" perspective, ie teacher discussions, relationships of staff members, etc.
+ A more realistic student base, where geeks, jocks, etc. aren't as exaggerated. Even Screech is just mildly dorky.
+ Students have more serious problems, like learning disabilities.
+ You can see what the school looks like from the outside, every episode.
+ Milo, and other staff and faculty members.
+ A cafeteria that is actually used. Maybe some schools exist where everyone eats lunch at a 50's style diner off campus, but mine wasn't one of them. Nor are many/most schools.
+ A principal's office more like a real one, where you have to go through the secretary, and other obstacles to get to the guy in charge.
+ The 5 main student characters are just a small group of friends, pretty average in the school pecking order (see the "frat pledge" episode, where Zach has to ditch his lower-rung buds). They hold no real political power, and don't manipulate the principal as much.
Cons:
- Not as entertaining of an environment. Indiana middle America with pretty boring "extras", teachers or side cast.
- Middle School not High School. High School has more possibilities (characters driving, etc.)
- Although it is realistic, the lack of the "6 kids rule the school" factor hinders its possibilities for storylines.
My decision:
While Bayside is a fun fantasy/cartoon high school, JFK seems more down to earth and realistic. I'd pick JFK over Bayside. Now if Peter Engel & Co. combined the two -- a California High School with some more of JFK's "realistic" features -- I'd choose that school, no question.