Rocket Kids is preparing to send its largest cohort yet to U.S. military bases across Europe, with 95 student interns set to provide educational and recreational programming this summer in Germany, Italy, Belgium and the Netherlands.
The University of Toledo will celebrate these soon-to-be globe-trotting Rockets with A Celebration of Service: Blast Off!, a free, public event from 2:30 to 5:30 p.m. Saturday, April 26, in Doermann Theatre. Attendees are invited to step back into childhood and enjoy an uplifting afternoon of joy, creativity and celebration through music, dance and skits.
“This is such an exciting opportunity because not only do I get to do what I love and am most passionate about — working with children — but it is also an amazing way to give back to those serving our country and their families,” said Marysa King, a middle childhood education sophomore who will join this summer’s cohort. “I also love to travel and see different cultures, so it is a great learning experience as well.
Rocket Kids is a transformational experiential learning program housed in the Judith Herb College of Education, supported by a $11.5 million grant through the Department of Army Installation Management Command-Europe NAF. Not only does it fill a vital childcare need for military families, it also offers students an unforgettable journey of service, cultural exchange and professional growth.
Rocket Kids recruits and trains current students and recent graduates across the country and last year introduced additional training sites online at Indiana State University and San Diego State University. Now in its third summer, the program has grown significantly since its inception in February, 2023, with 26 students serving across six bases in 2023, 81 students in nine bases in 2024 and 95 students in 11 bases in 2025.
“College students are taking notice of this unique opportunity to serve children while exploring the world,” said Dr. Sammy Spann, program creator and vice provost and dean of students at UToledo.
Judith Herb is a long-time advocate and namesake of the College of Education.
“Across the nation, I’ve heard students say what a life-changing experience this program was,” she said. “It’s truly something special.”
Dr. Rebecca Schneider, acting dean of the Judith Herb College of Education, agreed.
“Visiting the sites in person makes a world of difference,” she said. “The students truly value this opportunity — many plan to return.”
For more information or to apply for the fall or spring semesters, visit the Rocket Kids website.
