A Smile as Big as the Moon

1. Special education teacher takes on ambitious Space Camp challenge

"I think our kids can really shine here."

Bold vision. Mike Kersjes, a special education teacher at Forest Hills Northern High School in Grand Rapids, Michigan, embarks on an audacious mission to take his class of students with various disabilities to Space Camp. This NASA-sponsored program is typically reserved for gifted and talented students, making Kersjes' goal seem nearly impossible to many.

Diverse challenges. The class includes students with a range of disabilities:

• Ben Schmidt: Down's syndrome
• Steve Bennett: Tourette's syndrome
• Lewis Dayhuff: Emotional and behavioral issues
• Marion Mills: Leukemia survivor
• Stephanie Reinks: Learning disabilities and low self-esteem

Despite their challenges, Kersjes believes in his students' potential and is determined to give them this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

2. Overcoming skepticism and bureaucratic hurdles

"Come on, Mike. Think about what you're doing here. Some of these kids have IQs below eighty-five. They come from broken homes, foster homes. This is ridiculous."

Persistent opposition. Kersjes faces significant resistance from school administrators, colleagues, and even Space Camp officials. The principal, Tom Keller, and special education coordinator, Denise Boitano, are particularly skeptical and unsupportive.

Strategic alliances. To overcome these obstacles, Kersjes:

• Enlists the help of his teaching partner, Robynn McKinney
• Gains support from Congressman Paul Henry
• Secures backing from NASA education director Dr. Robert Brown
• Obtains funding from local businessman Dan Trierweiler

Through persistence and strategic networking, Kersjes gradually builds a support system that allows him to move forward with his ambitious plan.

3. Innovative teaching methods prepare students for Space Camp

"A genius is someone who takes something that's complicated and makes it simple."

Experiential learning. Kersjes and McKinney develop a comprehensive training program to prepare their students for Space Camp. They focus on making complex concepts accessible through hands-on activities and creative teaching methods.

Key elements of their preparation include:

• Creating a board game to teach space-related acronyms
• Building model rockets to understand propulsion
• Conducting simulated space missions in the classroom
• Organizing stargazing sessions to learn astronomy
• Practicing underwater tetrahedron construction for microgravity simulation

These innovative approaches help the students grasp difficult concepts and develop the skills necessary for success at Space Camp.

4. Building teamwork and confidence through hands-on experiences

"You guys are a team, and that's something no one can ever take away from you."

Fostering unity. Throughout the preparation process, Kersjes and McKinney emphasize the importance of teamwork and mutual support. They organize activities that require collaboration and encourage students to look out for one another.

Confidence boosters:

• Community rocket launch event
• Bowling outings
• Visits from astronaut Jack Lousma
• Participation in school dances and social events

These experiences help the students develop social skills, boost their self-esteem, and learn to work together effectively. The transformation in their behavior and attitudes becomes increasingly apparent as they prepare for Space Camp.

5. Facing setbacks and personal growth during Space Camp training

"If anyone was going to make an idiot out of himself, or give the other campers reason to make fun of someone, it was going to be me."

Overcoming challenges. The road to Space Camp is not without its difficulties. Students face various setbacks and moments of self-doubt during their training.

Notable challenges include:

• Initial struggles with underwater tetrahedron construction
• Difficulty memorizing complex space-related information
• Emotional outbursts and conflicts among team members
• Personal issues, such as Lewis Dayhuff's troubled home life

Teacher's role. Kersjes and McKinney provide constant support and encouragement, helping students navigate these obstacles. They also learn to step back and allow the students to solve problems independently, fostering personal growth and resilience.

6. Unexpected success in Space Camp simulations and competitions

"Y'all got an eye!"

Exceeding expectations. Upon arriving at Space Camp, the Forest Hills Northern team surprises everyone with their performance. They excel in various activities and competitions:

• Highest team average on the entrance exam
• Top performance in underwater tetrahedron construction
• Successful completion of simulated space missions
• High scores in rocket building and launching

Their success challenges preconceptions about the capabilities of special education students and earns them respect from other campers and staff members.

7. Transformative impact on students' self-esteem and life prospects

"We don't need you anymore."

Newfound independence. The Space Camp experience profoundly affects the students' self-perception and confidence. They demonstrate increased maturity, problem-solving skills, and ability to work as a team.

Long-term benefits:

• Improved academic performance
• Enhanced social skills and peer relationships
• Greater aspirations for future careers and education
• Increased resilience and ability to overcome challenges

The success at Space Camp not only boosts the students' self-esteem but also opens up new possibilities for their futures. It challenges societal expectations of special education students and demonstrates the transformative power of believing in students' potential.

Last updated: March 21, 2025