As classes resume at Greendale Community College for the fall, the "Community" study group gathers to tackle this year's big class, "Anthropology 101. " Television icon and multiple Emmy Award-winner Betty White guest stars as the esteemed, but slightly unhinged anthropology professor, June Bauer. Jeff Winger, struggles to establish decorum with Britta and Annie amidst the confusion that ensued at the season finale's "Transfer Dance," when Britta professed her love for Jeff and Jeff later shared a secret kiss with Annie. Meanwhile, Senor Chang decides to enroll as a student at Greendale Community College so that he too, can join the study group.

Pierce deals with the death of his mother and the group comes together to comfort him in his time of need. Professor Duncan struggles to take over the anthropology class with no training, as Professor Bauer takes an unexpected leave of absence after her classroom hijinks put Jeff Winger in the hospital.