A Smile as Big as the Moon

"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: Despite their challenges, Kersjes believes in his students' potential and is determined to give them this once-in-a-lifet

Lesson 1: Special education teacher takes on ambitious Space Camp challenge

This principle from A Smile as Big as the Moon is backed by Mike Kersjes's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 2: Overcoming skepticism and bureaucratic hurdles

This principle from A Smile as Big as the Moon is backed by Mike Kersjes's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

Lesson 3: Innovative teaching methods prepare students for Space Camp

This principle from A Smile as Big as the Moon is backed by Mike Kersjes's extensive research and real-world examples. Understanding it deeply can shift how you approach decisions, relationships, and long-term planning in meaningful ways.

How to Apply A Smile as Big as the Moon's Lessons

The real value of A Smile as Big as the Moon lies in its applicability. After reading, the most important step is identifying which of Mike Kersjes's principles speak most directly to your current situation.

Consider keeping a journal while reading — noting where the ideas challenge your current approach and where they confirm what you already suspected. The friction of your own resistance often points to the most important insights.

Key Quote

"Special education teacher takes on ambitious Space Camp challenge" — Mike Kersjes, A Smile as Big as the Moon

About the Author

Mike Kersjes is the author of A Smile as Big as the Moon. The book reflects years of research, observation, and synthesis of evidence from multiple disciplines.