Jenison Junior High Special Education Teacher Dawn Dykstra has been blessed with many great student teachers over the years, but this semester’s student teacher, Zoie Mokma, was unforgettable.
That’s because Mokma, a 2022 Jenison graduate, spent three weeks of her internship filling in for Dykstra, who was in Arizona taking care of her mom in the hospital. Her mom eventually passed away on April 11.
But thanks to Mokma’s skill and confidence in the classroom, she was able to focus on her family and not worry about the classroom back in Michigan. Mokma had it all under control, essentially assuming the role of a long-term substitute teacher.
That left a lasting impact on Dykstra and helped her grow close to Mokma personally.
“She will forever be a part of my life journey. This is different,” Dykstra said about their relationship. “It’s priceless.”
Today is Mokma’s last day as a student teacher in Dykstra’s class because she graduates on Saturday. Both women held back tears as they recalled the challenging, yet powerful last few months.
“It’s bittersweet. It was such an incredible experience that set me up for success,” Mokma said. “I am going to miss Dawn and the kids so much.”
Dykstra said she is grateful that Junior High Principal Brett Cataldo and Assistant Principal Heather Breen knew, trusted, and supported Mokma along the way.
“She did an amazing job and has had such a positive influence on my students,” Dykstra wrote in an email to the entire junior high staff.
