A paddock pass does not let you into the pits. It allows you free roam of the garage area, but to get to the pits you need a seperate pass that's pretty pricey. The paddock pass is definitely worth it, it's only about 15 bucks.
Anyways, I'll be there the whole weekend for the ALMS race. It looks to be a good damn time. Other than the ALMS series, there will be 6 other series racing. I look forward to seeing the World Challenge GT cars the most. My favorite spot for watching is in the esses. This is the best spot for the beginning, because they will be starting the race from the stretch between the keyhole and the esses. I also love Thunder Valley, it really lives up to its name.
I've never gotten a chance to drive on the track, but would like to attend the school sometime. All I can say about the updates is that I hope they work out for the best.