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Empowering Unique Learners
A Message from the Head of School, Meg Bamford - March 2025
Meg Bamford | Head of Miriam School and Learning Center


Hopefully, we are on a quick thaw from our snowy winter to spring! 

Yesterday, at the beginning of our Board Meeting, some children from Rooms One and Two did a fantastic job demonstrating a dancing brain break session for our Trustees. Later, one Trustee said what inspired her was noting the progress of one little girl. Last year, for the Spring Talent Show, that child was so anxious about performing that she cried throughout her performance. Yesterday, she could dance in front of a group of 30 people!

At Miriam, our children are seen for their strengths and possibilities and given tools to reach them. When children struggle with behaviors, they sometimes conclude they are bad people, incapable of doing better. Whether they are seven or seventeen, children will often act like the people they imagine others perceive them to be. It becomes a terrible self-fulfilling prophecy. The thought cycle of a child can become entrenched. "You think I am bad so that I will do bad things." Or sadly, "You think I am unloveable, so I will prove you right."

Many of our children have come from other school environments where they did not have a mechanism to process their negative choices or behaviors. Students who think concretely can confuse the concept of a bad choice in the moment and being a bad person. We believe it is important to be explicit with them about the difference at Miriam. Children must be reminded, especially in those dark moments, that you will always love them unconditionally. They are then offered an opportunity to make things better.

Part of the learning curve, especially for children who struggle to "push their pause button," is realizing that making better choices takes time. Misbehaviors are challenging, and poor decisions may be made repeatedly. Reflecting with your child on the situation and what needs to be rectified is powerful. Your help in assisting them in recognizing that they made a mistake, providing problem-solving steps they can take to improve the situation, and then reflecting on how to avoid the same mistake in the future empowers children. It allows them to feel that they have a locus of control.

Following our Board Meeting yesterday, Mary Cognata and I hosted a group of 15 visitors from Minds Schools in Singapore. These educators, from afar, remarked over and over on the positive behavioral approaches we implement, the positive messaging everywhere (“even the restroom!”), and how it clearly transfers to each child. 

Thank you, as always, for your support of Miriam. Together, we are changing the lives of students, day after day.

Wishing you all the best,
 

Meg Bamford, Head of Miriam School and Learning Center

A Legacy of Connection: The Lasting Impact of the Miriam Difference - A Message from the Head of School, Meg Bamford - October 2025

Today I was reminded of the lasting connections cast here when I had the privilege of giving one of our alumni, Isaac, and his father a tour of our Lower/Middle School Campus. Isaac is now considering a career in special education and is seeking a volunteer opportunity with us. 

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After nearly seven decades, Miriam Switching Post is closing for a hiatus

For nearly 70 years, Miriam Switching Post has been a staple in St. Louis’ resale market, offering upscale furniture, home decor, collectibles, art, and jewelry. Driven by donations and volunteers, the shop’s profits provide financial assistance to families who attend Miriam School, a school for students with learning differences. 

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In the News: Navigating new routines during back-to-school season

Often, returning to a school year routine can be an adjustment for students, something parents can begin preparing for in the weeks prior to the school year beginning.

“It’s really a good idea to sit with your child and make a check-list for their morning routine,” said Meg Bamford of Miriam School and Learning Center. “What are the things you need to do on their own to get ready in the morning?”

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A Message from the Head of School, Meg Bamford - August 2025

Next week, our hallways will once again be filled with the joyful energy of our students. We will begin another year dedicated to helping each child reach their fullest potential, providing the educational approaches, services, and strategies they need to thrive. Several of our Learning Center employees have begun their work in our partner schools throughout St Louis.

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In the News: Miriam School and Learning Center's Minds in Bloom Gala

Miriam School and Learning Center hosted its Minds in Bloom Gala at the Clayton Plaza Hotel, bringing together supporters for an evening of cocktails, conversation and fundraising in support of specialized education for children. Following a lively cocktail hour, guests enjoyed a three-course dinner and opening remarks from committee chair Judi Scissors.

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5 New Miriam Board Members for 2025

Miriam School and Learning Center is pleased to announce the appointment of five members to the board of directors. These additions will support the nonprofit’s work to empower unique learners, bringing the total number of board members to 22. The board also appointed Darcy Scharff as president-elect, in line to take over the presidency from Kristen Bowser on July 1, 2026. 

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