For the past six weeks, walking through the halls during fifth period has been a sensory adventure. 

A steady stream of power tools could be heard from the woodworking class, held in the science lab. The rhythm of the Electric Slide and other slide dance songs echoed from the gym, filling the air with energy and movement. Further down the hall, the rhythm faded to quiet concentration, where students are engaged in artwork in one room and learning about mindfulness in another.

These and other experiential learning courses are an integral part of the Miriam Essentials (ME) curriculum, a program intentionally designed to equip students with skills and experiences vital for life beyond high school.

The curriculum emphasizes five core areas of growth, blending academic learning with practical, real-world applications. At its heart, the ME curriculum prioritizes hands-on engagement, which Principal Vicki Thurman said has translated into enthusiastic participation across the board.

In addition to woodworking, dance, painting and mindfulness, students also had the opportunity to choose Miriam Makers, which blended art and entrepreneurship, or driver’s education. 

Gary Schoen, a math and science teacher who co-taught woodworking, said he enjoyed watching the students’ confidence grow throughout the six weeks. “At first, they were timid about using the tools, but once they learned how to use them, they became more comfortable.”

Schoen also said he had the opportunity to teach students the importance of slowing down and concentrating while working. “This class helped them understand how important accuracy is in building,” he said.

Miriam senior Addi said she has really liked her experience in woodworking. “I like hands-on work, because it’s more straightforward.” Eddie, a sophomore, agreed. He loves creating with Legos, and this class provided him with a chance to do a different type of building.

Karen Cross and Carrie Lorentz, who co-taught the dance class with counselor Khloe Getman, said they have always loved to dance and they were excited to share it with the students. “I love seeing the kids feel so empowered to do this,” Lorentz said.

“Dance is really good for you, and you can move around and do all kinds of crazy stuff,” said Stanley, a freshman who took the dance class. It’s safe to say he enjoyed his time!

Beyond learning the R&B and Western slide dances, students researched types of dances in other cultures and put together projects to help educate others.

“Teachers have embraced this opportunity to share their own passions and skills, creating enriching and inspiring environments that push students to grow in new meaningful ways,” Thurman said. “The experiential learning model has energized the school community, sparking curiosity and excitement while laying the groundwork for a well-rounded and engaging educational journey.”

On December 19, students and staff set up a showcase for the entire school community. Miriam Makers sold their creations, dance students showed off their moves, mindfulness students displayed their Zen gardens, driver’s ed students quizzed the other students, and painting and woodworking students displayed their craft.

Students will return to the grade-level ME curriculum for third quarter, but they will have the opportunity to choose from a different set of six-week units in the last quarter of the academic year.

“Our four-year ME curriculum is designed to support individual student skill development necessary for living productive and balanced lives beyond Miriam,” Thurman said. “The addition of the six-week courses increased our capacity to foster individual interests and passions while helping students strengthen their skills of self-advocacy, goal-setting, mind and body regulation, independent living skills, and social skills.”

Miriam High School Transition Services

Some students plan for four-year or community college experiences, and others want to explore job training, internships, and life skills preparation. Miriam High School’s unique programming is designed to support both types of these learners and set students up for success in their post-secondary endeavors.

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