Almost Summer

During a sunny California beach gathering, two juniors are positioned as frontrunners for student body president. Bobby DeVito bets on Grant Michelson's campaign while quietly sizing up Christine Alexander, who is cuddled with her new boyfriend, Kevin Hawkins. Donna also spots Darryl Fitzgerald, a lesser-known junior, as a possible dark horse.

The next day at school, Bobby and Dean discover that Christine had Grant suspended and is running uncontested. With only two weeks until the vote, they realize they need a replacement candidate to counter Christine.

While working in the attendance office, Bobby encounters Darryl needing a note. He sees an opportunity in Darryl's anonymity to challenge Christine and, after some persuasion, Darryl agrees to run to gain attention from popular girls.

At the school assembly introducing the candidates, Darryl delivers a speech that makes a positive impression on his classmates. His unexpected performance positions him as a credible contender and shifts the campaign momentum.

Christine and Kevin argue about their future after Kevin fails to secure a football scholarship. Donna meanwhile excitedly plans for the senior prom, hoping Darryl's victory will make it memorable.

Bobby guides Darryl through campaign preparations, turning him into a capable candidate. Darryl begins to show independence, subtly resisting being merely Bobby's puppet.

During a hangout, Bobby tells Darryl about Donna's feelings, but Darryl hesitates due to his campaign responsibilities. He confesses that he actually likes Christine, complicating the love triangle.

Christine challenges Darryl to a debate and accuses him of being Bobby's puppet. The confrontation foreshadows a tough, independent race.

Donna overhears the confrontation and confronts Bobby. He admits that he revealed her feelings to Darryl, which enrages Donna and triggers a cafeteria food fight.

Darryl accepts Christine's debate challenge despite the tension. The campaign pushes forward with high stakes and a strong test of his leadership.

During the debate, Dean interrupts by reporting police on campus arresting Duane Jackson. Darryl intervenes, quoting California law to expose an illegal search, gaining sympathy from classmates.

On election day, Donna questions Darryl's motives. Bobby and Christine call a truce and reflect on the past as Darryl wins the election.

Darryl wins the election but immediately contemplates the truth about the staged police bust. He ultimately declines the presidency and leaves, unaware that his classmates actually support him.

Donna visits Darryl, dressed for prom, and persuades him to go, arguing that his honesty earned their respect. Darryl agrees, setting the stage for prom night.

At the prom, Darryl is touched by the support from his peers; Dean reunites with Nicole; Bobby and Christine share a kiss, signaling a bittersweet but hopeful ending to the school upheaval.