The sixth season ends with Alex's graduation party at Jay and Gloria's house, but Phil is stuck in Seattle on a business trip, so he uses the latest in technology to be as close as he can get. Meanwhile, Claire worries about Alex's gift, Jay complains that Gloria's cousin has overstayed his welcome, Mitchell keeps the news of his layoff a secret from Cameron, and a visit from Andy's girlfriend turns Haley's world upside down.
Claire gets a job offer from a big hotel chain, but can't tell if Jay wants her to take it or keep working for him. Meanwhile, Phil, Haley and Luke are more interested in Alex's senior "ditch day" than she is; and Manny is dopey from pain killers after having his wisdom teeth pulled, so Gloria seizes the opportunity to get rid of his new girlfriend.
Alex learns she has to share valedictorian honors with a rival, but the tie could be broken by a 1-mile run for a gym grade neither has completed. Meanwhile, Gloria studies for her U.S. citizenship test, but is distracted by a visit from Javier; and Mitchell and Cameron join a protest against a restaurant where they actually can't wait to dine.
Jay's birthday comes with a number of interesting gifts, including Phil's high-tech outdoor grill, and Claire and Mitchell's offer to pay back some ancient loans—though they don't think he'll actually accept it. Meanwhile, Gloria teaches Manny and Luke a lesson about drinking; and Andy finds himself in an awkward situation when Haley brings her new doctor boyfriend.