A mythical character named Johnny Lovely blows into town to show Penny and her friends the importance of treating each other with respect. His arrival coincides with rehearsals for the Junior Debutante Ball, a custom that Penny complains is outdated and demeaning to women. However, Johnny sees this coming-out party as a chance to put on display his gentlemanly good manners.

Penny and her classmates experience culture shock when their teacher assigns them to spend time in homes of classmates of different nationalities. Penny's initial awkwardness when visiting a Pakistani family who's fasting during Ramadan gives way to an appreciation of the Islamic faith.

Penny is running against mudslinger Wizard Kelly Jr. in the race for class president.

Wizard Kelly organizes a televised talent contest featuring celebrity judge Alicia Keys, and LaCienega decides to enter it. But Penny suspects that the wannabe pop idol isn't above cheating to win.