The Partridge Family Season 1 Episode 15 Mom Drops Out
- January 8, 1971
- 25 min
The Partridge Family season 1 episode 15, "Mom Drops Out," follows the titular family as they prepare for a gig at a local high school. However, things take a turn when Shirley, the mother and lead singer of the band, decides to drop out and go back to school to finish her education.
The episode begins with the Partridges getting ready for their performance at the high school dance. Instead of rehearsing, Shirley is busy studying for an upcoming test. When her husband and manager, Keith, asks her about it, she reveals that she's decided to go back to school and get her high school diploma.
The news comes as a shock to the family, especially to oldest son Keith Jr., who worries that his mother will embarrass him by being in the same school as him and his friends. However, Shirley is determined to go through with it and enrolls in the local high school.
At school, Shirley struggles to fit in with the other students, who are mostly half her age. She feels insecure and out of place, but her determination to succeed keeps her going. Meanwhile, Keith Jr. tries to distance himself from his mother at school, but eventually realizes that he needs to support her and shows her around the campus.
Back at home, the family struggles to keep up with their gigs without their lead singer. They audition several different singers, but none of them come close to Shirley's talent. In the end, they are forced to cancel their upcoming performance, disappointing their fans.
Despite the setback, Shirley is determined to continue with her education and refuses to drop out. She eventually finds a group of older students who are also taking night classes and meets a man named Jack who offers to tutor her. As her confidence grows, she becomes more comfortable at school and even joins the cheerleading squad.
In the end, Shirley passes her test with flying colors and graduates with her high school diploma. The family throws her a surprise graduation party, and even Keith Jr. admits that he's proud of his mother's accomplishments. The episode ends on a high note, with the Partridge Family back together and ready to take on their next gig.
Overall, "Mom Drops Out" is a heartwarming episode that showcases Shirley's determination and the love and support of her family. The episode tackles themes of education, insecurity, and family dynamics in a lighthearted and entertaining way. Fans of the Partridge Family will enjoy seeing the family work together to overcome their obstacles and celebrate their successes.