Fox Cities News

Magic and education converged in a unique event for Oshkosh Area School District (OASD) students on January 15, 2025. Dr. Kevin Spencer, an internationally acclaimed illusionist and special education consultant, shared his expertise with students as part of his residency at The Grand Opera House in Oshkosh.

Spencer's day was dedicated to engaging OASD students through his innovative program across Menominee Elementary School, Vel Phillips Middle School, and Oshkosh North High School. His "Hocus Focus Project" aims to build confidence and self-esteem in children with disabilities using magic tricks designed to enhance cognitive, motor, communication, and social skills.

Students from various grade levels participated enthusiastically in age-appropriate magical experiences. At Menominee Elementary, they learned how to tie a rope into a knot without releasing the ends. Middle schoolers at Vel Phillips practiced making rubber bands leap between fingers with a single motion. At Oshkosh North High School, students mystified their peers by linking paper clips through a folded dollar bill trick. Each performance concluded with a student turning one foam ball into two.

Dr. Spencer explained the significance of these activities: “For students with disabilities, magic is something that may feel out of their reach. When they learn a magic trick...that’s such a confidence builder.” He added that magic provides teachers with another tool to challenge and see their students differently.

In addition to student presentations, Spencer conducted a professional development workshop for over 20 OASD educators titled "Teach Like A Magician." This session aimed to inspire new ways of boosting student engagement and creativity in classrooms.

Linda Pierron, OASD director of special education, praised the visit: “It was such a blessing to have Dr. Kevin Spencer join us...engaging both students and staff.” She acknowledged the positive impact of Spencer's knowledge on brain research and autism.

The visit highlights OASD's dedication to offering innovative learning experiences for all students through partnerships with experts like Dr. Spencer.