In his 2010 book "Inside Fame on Television - A behind-the-Scenes History", Michael A. Hoey reveals that "Passing Grade" was filmed after Tomorrow's Farewell (1982) and Tomorrow's Farewell (1982), but was broadcast after the pilot in order to introduce the new character of Danny Amatullo.
Danny Amatullo, played by Carlo Imperato replaced a similar character from the pilot, Ralph Garcy, played by Tommy Aguilar and loosely based on the character from Fame (1980) played by Barry Miller. Danny's last name was taken from crew-member Tony Amatullo.