On January 28th, it appears that NASA will adhere to their latest rescheduled date for the Challenger launch. Bird arrives in the auditorium early and finds a set for herself in the front row, poised with her notebook to write her questions and observations down. Ms. Salonga reminds the students that it is still possible that NASA may postpone the mission, even at this late stage, if the conditions are not suitable for liftoff. Finally, a picture appears on the television screen and the broadcast begins. Someone turns out the lights, and Bird is enveloped by the sights and sounds of the launch beginning.

Meanwhile, Fitch daydreams in Mr. Wills’ exceptionally dry social studies class down the hall. Suddenly, a terrible sound of anguish fills the hallways, followed by the sound of a door opening so forcefully that it slams against the opposite wall. When a shape passes by the door, Fitch immediately recognizes it as Bird, and he jumps out of his chair and moves for the door. Together, he and Mr. Wills witness her running into bathroom. Fitch trails behind Mr. Wills as he heads in the direction of the auditorium. In the doorway is Ms. Salonga, her eyes welling with tears.