When Mr. Belding tells Zack that he would like to see his father to discuss his bad grades, Zack hires an actor to play his father. However, things soon become complicated.

Jessie's self-esteem takes a dive when she gets 1200 on the SAT's, while Zach gets 1502, and her chances to get into "Stansbury" College are hurt, so Zach hires James to help.