Series writer Joel Kane obviously based this sentimental episode on GOODBYE, MR. CHIPS, the film classic starring Robert Donat.
The guys inspiring high school teacher, Mr. Pomfritt, says he's going to give up teaching and move into another field, all because he's not making enough money! The announcement absolutely floors Dobie and Maynard, remembering all the support and encouragement he gave them through the years and their fellow classmates --making them better people.
Mr. Pomfritt nevertheless wants to leave.... So Dobie, Maynard, and Mr. And Mrs. Gillis ban together to stop him. There's only one thing to do: throw a party and bring in some of his old students, whose lives were changed because of him. And there's a bunch, including young Jo Anne Worley, as Myrtle Tarantino.
This was Jo Anne's first tv acting credit, and she's good, even in a bit role. Popular character actor Eddie Firestone plays her dad, who also owes a lot to Mr. Pomfritt.
There's only one scene that doesn't make sense.
Pomfritt, who is really angry, backs down to Principal Nettleton (played by John Graham). Why? If he's not making a lot of money, he should DEMAND a raise!
Yes! There is a happy ending. Humbled Mr. Pomfritt decides to stay, even if he has to work nights at another job... Oh, well?
Top direction by series associate producer Guy Scarpitta, who does a great job with the cast, and with more dramatic material at that. By the way, actor John Graham was best known for playing the governor on the 50s tv soaper VALIANT LADY, later making several apperances on HAZEL.
Cheers for poor, but enlightened Mr. Pomfritt. Best of SEASON 2 EPISODE 34 remastered dvd box set. 5 dvds. Released 2020 with a classic color cover of Dobie and Maynard.