Winter break and the holiday season are synonymous with joy, celebration, and cherished family gatherings. However, for neurodivergent children - including those with sensory processing disorder, ADHD, or autism - the sudden disruption of familiar routines and the massive increase in sensory stimuli can feel overwhelming.

More than a holiday meal, the annual Friendsgiving project at Miriam High School serves up crucial, real-world life lessons. Whether following a recipe or budgeting for groceries, the skills students learn span nearly every facet of adult life.

Every day at Miriam School and Learning Center, students are not only learning academics - they’re learning how to learn. That process relies on something called executive function: the brain’s ability to plan, organize, remember information, manage emotions and get things done.

Miriam High School is excited to announce that it is now a full member of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA), which opens up the opportunity for Miriam students to play sports with a partner team. 

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. 

As the colors of fall begin to brighten our days, we see the same kind of transformation happening at Miriam. For many of our new students, this is the first place where they feel true belonging and confidence. It is inspiring to watch their strengths and passions emerge within our community.

Miriam High School is excited to announce that it is now a full member of the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSHSAA), which opens up the opportunity for Miriam students to play sports with a partner team. 

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. 

Since its debut in the 1970s, Dungeons & Dragons (D&D) has captivated generations with its mix of storytelling, strategy and creativity. The game’s ability to adapt to various play styles and preferences has kept it relevant with a wide variety of audiences - including neurodivergent individuals. 

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.

Wishing you a happy day. Lately, I have had the privilege to sit with educators, staff, and parents at the Lower Middle School. As always, I am so impressed by the depth of heart, expertise, and commitment to our students who learn differently.

As we close out the 2024–2025 school year, it’s almost hard to believe how quickly the time has passed. This year has been full of growth, discovery, and meaningful progress—both within our K–12 school and across our ever-expanding outreach programs.

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.