In this fan-favorite episode, Mr. Belding's brother, Rod, fills in for a recently fired history teacher. His lax style and being able to relate to them makes him a favorite among students. The newfound bond though rubs Principal Belding the wrong way
Episode Tropes:
- Aww Look They Really Do Love Each Other: Belding spares everyone's feelings, including Zack's, by lying and saying Rod was sick and couldn't make it but decides to take them on the rafting trip. Zack admits he heard what happened while looking for Rod and that while Rod might've been The Ace growing up, Richard's character proves above all else, he's the better one.
- Bitch in Sheep's Clothing: Downplayed. Rod Belding's kindness towards the kids is genuine and he does feel some level of guilt for letting them down, but he still decides a one night stand with a stewardess is worth more than a class trip that means a lot to the students.
- Brilliant, but Lazy: Rod Belding apparently was up for vice president of an airline, but passed it up so he can enjoy his summers.
- Disappointed in You: Richard Belding tells this to Rod when he learns of his intents to skip the class trip to hook up with a stewardess
- Laser-Guided Karma: The history teacher at the beginning is a flat-out Sadist Teacher who wants his students to fail, Principal Belding catching wind of this gets him fired.
- Mirror Character: Rod Belding has a lot in common with Zack, which is why the two bond so quickly.
- "The Reason You Suck" Speech:
- Richard Belding gives his brother a well-deserved one for ditching an important class trip for a fling.
- Zack gives Principal Belding one halfway through when he tries to warn him about his brother. He forgives Zack after he apologizes as he was Right for the Wrong Reasons.
- Tranquil Fury: After his "The Reason You Suck" Speech, he firmly stands his ground to his brother and without raising his voice, fires him and tells him to Get Out!.
- What You Are in the Dark: Richard Belding could've told the students the truth about what Rod did, but decides to spare their feelings given how much they cared about him. This is not out of character for Belding, but implies that there's some love left for his brother.
