Ep 5. S-t-- Stage Mom

Maya DiMeo is a fierce mother who will do anything to ensure her children receive the necessary accommodation despite living with cerebral palsy. In the latest episode of Speechless season 3, titled "S-t-- Stage Mom," Maya is determined to get JJ into the drama program at Lafayette Middle School, where he can use his undeniable talent for acting.

Maya isn't impressed with the school's drama program, which currently stars JJ's nemesis, a wealthy student who is obsessed with the theatre and selfishly denies JJ his rightful spot. Maya isn't intimidated by this stage mom and stages a scheme to get JJ into the drama show with the help of the mysterious janitor, Gary. Maya, Jimmy, Ray and Dylan all work together to ensure JJ shines on stage. Even Kenneth steps in to lend a hand.

However, Maya's ambitions, in this case, might turn out to jeopardize JJ's time in high school. Her overprotective instincts lead her to making an unreasonable request of the drama department, which could cost JJ his place in the program. Maya goes to battle with the school's principal to rectify things and eventually, the school agrees to make the required accommodations.

Meanwhile, Kenneth attempts to instill life skills to the athlete in the family, Dylan, by teaching her how to change a tire. She is initially skeptical of the task but soon learns a valuable lesson about self-sufficiency that extends beyond just car maintenance.

Throughout the episode, we see the DiMeo family fighting to ensure JJ receives equal opportunities and access, as well as fighting against people who try to deny JJ these opportunities due to his disability. The show continues to highlight the importance of inclusion and acceptance for people with disabilities, with a focus on JJ's experiences in high school and the challenges he faces in the education system.

"S-t-- Stage Mom" is yet another excellent episode in Speechless season 3, with poignant moments and laugh-out-loud humor, as well as great performances from the ensemble cast. Viewers will root for Maya and JJ to succeed in this episode and for the DiMeo family to continue to fight for inclusivity and equality.