Max Fisher is a student at Rushmore, one of the most prestigious schools in the country. He is the editor of the school newspaper and the captain and president of numerous clubs and societies, but he is also a lousy student who is always on the verge of expulsion. When Max falls in love with Miss Cross, a young and charming teacher, his conquest is threatened because Mr. Blume, the father of two classmates, also tries to conquer her.