Ep 1. Making the Grade

Step by Step season 7 episode 1, titled Making the Grade, follows the lives of the Lambert and Foster families, who have joined together as one big blended family living in Wisconsin. In this episode, the kids are getting ready to start a new school year at Port Washington High School, but they all have their own unique set of challenges to face.

For starters, Frank and Carol's son J.T. is struggling to pass his driver's test, which is a requirement for him to continue playing football. He's failed multiple times, which is causing him to worry about his future as an athlete. Meanwhile, Frank and Carol's daughter Karen has been accepted into college but is struggling with the idea of leaving home and being on her own.

Dana, who is Carol's daughter, is also starting a new school year, but she has a different set of worries. She has been working hard to maintain her academic record, but she's afraid that she won't be able to keep up with the academic standards at her new school. This fear is only heightened by a conversation she has with her guidance counselor, who tells her that the school she's attending is extremely competitive.

At the same time, Mark, who is Frank's son, is coping with the loss of his mother, who died during the summer. He's trying to find ways to cope with his grief and is leaning on his family for support. On top of that, he's also dealing with a bully in school who is making his life miserable.

As the episode goes on, each character faces their own challenges, but they all come together to support one another in their time of need. J.T. finally passes his driver's test, but not without some comedic mishaps along the way. Karen decides to take a gap year before starting college, giving her time to explore her interests and desires without the pressure of academia.

Dana realizes that she's more than capable of keeping up with the academic standards at her new school and is proud of herself for persevering. Mark also stands up to his bully, gaining confidence and self-assurance along the way.

In the end, the episode delivers a heartwarming message of familial love and support. The Lambert and Foster families may have their differences, but they come together in times of need, proving that they're more than just a blended family, they're a team.