When Springfield Elementary is threatened with closure because of low standardized test scores, the fate of the school rests on one student who missed the test, and who must raise the average above the minimum threshold: Bart Simpson. Meanwhile, Homer finds a parking meter at a local dump, and starts deploying it around Springfield to fleece unwitting parkers of their quarters. Blackboard: 'I will obey oscar campaign rules from now on'.

Bart's heart strings are pulled once again when Mary Spuckler returns to Springfield. But his failure to pay her enough attention strains their relationship. Marge, too, puts Homer in the dog house.