When a special needs high school class goes on a rare field trip there is disaster. The following may be considered a spoiler. The principal says the class will no longer be allowed to go on field trips. But at the failed field trip a brochure for Space Camp had already captured the imagination of a student and one of their teachers. Not only will the trip cost $50,000.00 but the principal, Space Camp, and other students don't think they can handle it. The next 10 months the class prepares for the trip of a life time. Filled with the daily bullying faced by children with special needs the students over come low expectations to surprise, delight, and change attitudes. While some of the dialogue from the adults seems stilted but real the students are totally real and deliver great performances. Limited by TV time the actions still flows well and keeps the story alive until a triumphant finish.

I stumbled upon this program as I was doing homework for my instructional Strategy for Students at Risk class. I have never reviewed anything for IMDb, but wanted to promote "Moon." I found it particularly true and exciting to see the teacher's revelation (via his wife) to take such a complex curriculum (such as space camp's), and make it work for his class for students with LD (Learning Disabilities). They had one year to prepare for the program, and the co-teachers put together "something" for this purpose. It was totally successful. You can see some differentiated instruction techniques in process. Also, the fact that it is not uncommon for students with LD to have exceptional or significant gifts was reflected. It showed many aspects of the struggles and triumphs of students with LD. I liked how the teachers pushed their students beyond themselves. This movie shows all of us how acceptance, encouragement (and cheer leading), perseverance, and teamwork is accomplished. I'd like to say more, but I don't want to ruin it for you.

A Smile as Big as the Moon told us a story. Hallmark did it well, made it believable, and imparted a little vision for all of us. Did you catch it?

I really enjoyed this movie. I found myself cheering these kids on wanting them to do well. I am so glad they were given the opportunity and so happy that their teacher did not settle because they had challenges. They learned so much more than just sitting in the classroom. I Had just got back from Huntsville Alabama and The Rocket center is so worth seeing. James Welch Henderson Arkansas 4/13/21.