
In the Heck family, middle-age, middle-class, middle-America mom Frankie Heck (two-time Emmy winner Patricia Heaton) uses a sense of humor to try to steer her family through life's ups and downs as she tackles her career goals. Her unflappable husband, Mike (Neil Flynn), is a manager at the local quarry. Oldest son Axl is an obstinate young man; awkward daughter Sue cannot seem to find her niche -- despite much enthusiasm in her attempts -- and youngest son Brick is an unusual child whose best friend is his backpack.

Sue worries a series of unexpected events may ruin her graduation; Frankie and Mike are shocked when they learn Brick has been offered a chance to skip eighth grade; Axl is afraid he will lose his girlfriend.

Sue's excitement about college lessens when a mishap forces her to cut her hair; Brick's girlfriend wants to take things to the next level.

Nervous, Sue overwhelms Frankie and Mike with text messages as she waits for her roommate to arrive; Hutch and Axl deal with an ant infestation; a mysterious bodyguard protects Brick at school.

Frankie is stunned when Mike wears a Hawaiian shirt to a dinner with some friends; Sue accidentally tells Devin how much Axl loves her; Brick becomes overly ambitious while cleaning the bathroom.