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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

Miriam student participating in an election

On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, my daughter Lucy and I had the privilege of visiting the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. We were among hundreds of people from around the world who had gathered to pay our respects and reflect on the sacrifices made for freedom and peace. Standing in that sacred space on a day dedicated to Dr. King’s legacy, during the week of the presidential inauguration, provided a powerful day of reflection. 

Read More about A Message from the Head of School, Meg Bamford - February 2025
In the News: Personalized learning and integrated therapies create success stories for students with learning differences.

At Miriam School and Learning Center, the mission is clear: help children with special educational needs unlock their full potential. The K-12 educational institution draws on more than 60 years of experience in the field to provide a highly personalized learning environment that brings the best in every child. 

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In the News: Students at Miriam High School work together to bring Thanksgiving feast to classmates

Students at Miriam School and Learning Center learn differently, as classes provide individualized curriculum that often includes integrated speech and occupational therapy. At the high school, which is home to 40 students, teachers and staff place a major emphasis on preparing students for life after high school.

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Miriam student participating in an election

As the 2024 election approaches, I have been fascinated observing how differently our students are processing and engaging with the election compared to those at the traditional college preparatory school where I previously worked. Our faculty and staff have noted relatively little conversation among students about the election despite the prevalence of viewpoints on TikTok and other social media sites about the election and candidates. 

Read More about Navigating Politics with our Neurodiverse Learners: Teachable Moments
Two students working together during the rope course

Miriam School and Learning Center is proud to announce that the Rotary Club of St. Louis has generously awarded a $20,000 scholarship to support students in need of financial assistance. This year’s recipient, Remi W., a ninth grader from St. Ann, is a talented young student with a dream of becoming an artist and a passion for learning.

Read More about Rotary Club of St. Louis Awards $20,000 Scholarship to Miriam School and Learning Center