A Smile as Big as the Moon - Book Study

A Smile as Big as the Moon: A Special Education Teacher, His Class, and Their Inspiring Journey Through U.S. Space Camp by Mike Kersjes
Facilitator: Lisa Kruse
Limited to 15 participants
 

The inspiring true story of how one special education teacher got his class to Space Camp
"A heartening story, sure to inspire other teachers struggling with students who often seem beyond their reach." —Teacher magazine
Mike Kersjes always believed that his students could do anything—even attend the prestigious Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama, where some of America's best and brightest high school students compete in a variety of activities similar to those experienced by NASA astronauts training for shuttle missions. The challenge was convincing everyone else that the kids in his special education class, with disabilities including Tourette's syndrome, Down's Syndrome, dyslexia, eating disorders, and a variety of emotional problems, would benefit from the experience and succeed. With remarkable persistence, Kersjes broke down one barrier after another, from his own principal's office to the inner sanctum of NASA, until Space Camp finally opened its doors. After nine months of rigorous preparation, Kersjes's class arrived at Space Camp, where they turned in a performance beyond everyone's expectations.

Book Study Meeting Dates: 
● Thursday, May 7, 2026 (7-8 pm) 
● Thursday, May 14, 2026 (7-8 pm) 
● Thursday, May 21, 2026 (7-8 pm) 
● Thursday, May 28, 2026 (7-8 pm) 
 

How it works: 
● Check out the book from the library or purchase a digital/hard copy 
● One week before prior to the start date, check your email for the Zoom link and syllabus 
● Be ready to share your thoughts and ideas in the flexible discussion format. 
● If you cannot be present for a ZOOM meeting, you will be required to provide a written summary of the session’s content in order to receive your hours. This is intended to be synchronous book study with opportunities for discussion amongst colleagues, as such participants are expected to attend a minimum of 3 live sessions to obtain course hours. 
● A certificate with your credit hours will be issued upon completion of the book study