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Empowering Unique Learners
Students make connections and plan for post-graduation
Katie Stalter

 

At Miriam High School, planning for our students’ future is an integral part of their learning plans. Students will leave Miriam with a deep understanding of their strengths, challenges…and where they are headed next.
 

A Speaker for Transition Services at Miriam High School

They will also have a portfolio of life skills, community service, internships, and relationships with colleges and organizations who will help them along their path. 

“We need to help them think about their next steps, beyond high school, and the different programs and supports available to help them find success,” said Vicki Thurman, principal of Miriam High School. “We expose them to different careers and colleges or other programs that they aren’t aware of, but that can help them reach their goals.”

Quarterly throughout the academic year, the high school provides a College and Career Day for students, sometimes bringing representatives of colleges and organizations into the school, and other times taking students out into the community to learn about career opportunities onsite. 

“The kids really enjoy these days,” Thurman said. “They find them really applicable to who they are. After one of these days earlier in the year, we had students apply for jobs and receive offers. It helps them make connections.”
Multiple representatives of St. Louis Community College attended a recent Miriam College and Career Day. Willie Ash, STLCC coordinator of recruitment and outreach, said they truly believe everyone deserves an opportunity to attend college, if they are interested.

“Our campus is a big community,” Ash said. “We want all kinds of learners in our community.”
JR Johnson, assistant director of transition services at St. Louis Arc, said he met students during the recent event who he believes would be a good fit for their programs. “I can see our programs overlapping, and I think we would be a great fit for some of Miriam’s students.”

A Speaker with students for Miriam Transition Services

These days are part of a larger transition plan, Thurman said. Administrators engage in regular conversations with students and their families about post-secondary plans. 

“We’re tying it in as a part of their learning plan process, so we can make sure we’re on the same page – and have a place for students to go after they graduate,” Thurman said.

Miriam High School administrators are continuing to develop partnerships with other organizations, so they can ensure they are able to present a variety of opportunities to students each year.

Miriam’s Next Steps Fair will take place on Friday, April 19. Students and parents will have the opportunity to visit with representatives of several colleges and career/transition programs to gain ideas and make connections. 
 

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. 

Read More about In the News: Personalized learning and integrated therapies create success stories for students with learning differences. (opens in new window/tab)
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.

Read More about In the News: Students at Miriam High School work together to bring Thanksgiving feast to classmates (opens in new window/tab)
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