Gary comes to terms with the news of his ex-wife's engagement, while trying to navigate fatherhood and a new love interest of his own.

In an elaborate ruse concocted by her new friend Rayanne, Angela agrees to work with Brian Krakow on a school project at his house, in order to be alone at last with the enigmatic Jordan Catalano; and Patty convinces Graham to take ballroom dancing classes in an attempt to restore some romance to their marriage.

A rumor flying through the high school that Angela went "all the way" with Jordan Catalano reaches Patty and Graham, who must deal with the idea of their daughter having sex; while at the same time a gunshot is fired at school, leading to heavy pressure on Brian Krakow, who is believed to be the only witness.

Graham gives Angela two coveted tickets to a Grateful Dead concert in a misguided effort to win back her approval and Patty struggles to deal with her father Chuck's meddling in an IRS audit.

A pimple on Angela's face brings out all her insecurities, while her former best friend Sharon must deal with unwelcome attention caused by a "poll" at school.

Angela falls under the sway of an electrifying and extremely unconventional substitute English teacher, Vic Racine, whose provocative methods create a furor at Liberty High.