From Classroom to Cosmos: Indian River State College Student Turns Passion for Rocketry Into Published Children’s Book

A copy of the children's book Violet's Mission to Mars, written and illustrated by Serenity Raye Simon, stands on a display easel on a blue tablecloth. The hand-lettered cover features purple and red text and an illustrated rocket. A stack of additional copies and blue-and-gold pom-pom decorations are visible in the background.
“Violet’s Mission to Mars,” written and illustrated by Project STAGE student Serenity Raye Simon, on display at her book signing event. The book is available through Lulu Junior.

The Story

FORT PIERCE, Fla. (June 2, 2026) — At Indian River State College, potential has no limits. Now, one student is proving that firsthand. Project STAGE student Serenity Raye Simon has published her first children’s book, “Violet’s Mission to Mars.”

The Spark

Simon’s story begins with curiosity. During the Summer of 2025, she discovered a deep love for rocketry while studying under Professor Jon Bell. That spark refused to stay in the classroom. As a result, she channeled it into a book that brings the wonder of space to life for young readers.

“When Professor Bell introduced me to rocketry, something just clicked. I wanted little girls to look up at the sky and believe they could go there someday,” said Simon.

A young woman in a purple shirt and white headband sits in a blue armchair reading an open children's book to a group of young children seated on a colorful rug. A rocket-shaped balloon and a "Book Signing Today — Featured Author: Serenity Raye Simon" sign are visible nearby.
Project STAGE student and author Serenity Raye Simon reads her book, Violet’s Mission to Mars, aloud to preschool-aged children at The River’s Child Development Center during a special book signing event on May 1, 2026.

The Book

In Fall 2025, Simon got to work. First, she built a full storyboard from scratch. Then, she created every illustration herself. After months of dedication, she completed the manuscript. “Violet’s Mission to Mars” has since been published by print-on-demand company Lulu Junior and is available at https://lulujr.com/pages/orders (Book number: SU1597155LM).

The Impact

To celebrate, Simon recently visited preschool-aged children at The River’s Child Development Center. She read her book aloud and inspired the next generation of dreamers.

“Seeing their faces light up made the weekly studio time worth it,” said Simon. “When those kids leaned in during storytime, I felt like I had really done something.”

“Serenity’s journey from student to published author shows exactly what Project STAGE students are capable of,” said Project STAGE Director JoAnn Pagano. “Her creativity and determination reflect everything this program stands for.”

What’s Next

Simon plans to graduate in December 2026 with a Digital Media Certification. Her book stands as a powerful reminder: great things happen when students dare to dream.

About Project STAGE

Project STAGE — Students Transitioning to Academics and Gainful Employment — empowers students with unique abilities to rise higher. The program gives students the full college experience at The River. They take classes, join clubs, and build professional skills alongside peer mentors. Moreover, they gain hands-on experience through job shadowing, internships, and life skills training in areas such as financial planning and independent living. Many students enter a workforce career pathway and earn industry certifications.

A group of Project STAGE students wearing blue and white polo shirts hold up small challenge coins at the program's 2nd Annual Banquet. A faculty member in a white chef's coat stands among them, and an American flag is visible in the background.
Project STAGE students and faculty celebrate at the program’s 2nd Annual Banquet, proudly displaying their challenge coins — a symbol of their hard work and achievement at Indian River State College.

Ready to write your own story? Your mission starts here. Interested students and families can learn more by contacting Program Manager JoAnn Pagano at (772) 462-7817 or jpagano1@irsc.edu. Additional information is also available at irsc.edu/programs/special-programs/project-stage.

About Indian River State College 

Indian River State College serves Martin, St. Lucie, Indian River, and Okeechobee counties. The college provides high-quality, affordable education to over 24,000 students. Students access more than 130 programs through traditional and online formats. Programs lead to bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, technical certificates, and applied technology diplomas. For more information, visit irsc.edu.