Jonathan’s love for Miriam is palpable. Since first grade, he has embraced its opportunities for growth and success.

Now, Jonathan is looking forward to graduating in just two short months, and he and his family are reflecting on his 12 years at Miriam School. It has been a transformative journey filled with academic and social growth, friendship, and unwavering support from educators.

When Jonathan was just 6 years old, his parents already knew he would thrive in a small classroom, so they were looking into private school options. After trying two schools, it became clear that Jonathan would need extra support – and they found Miriam.

“After our first visit, it was a no-brainer,” said his mom, Angela. “Miriam has been able to build the support he needed into the classroom, with teachers who could teach to him specifically.”

This personalized support fostered an environment where Jonathan could succeed without feeling isolated or different. He faces challenges in language processing, retention and academics, and Miriam became a beacon of hope for Jonathan and his parents.

“I think the individualized approach has been the most impactful for Jonathan,” Angela said. “They’ve identified his strengths and areas where he could use more support, then built that learning plan just for him. It has given him confidence and space to find his place as a leader.”

Angela said it is evident that Miriam teachers are here because they are passionate about helping students like Jonathan. They are knowledgeable about the support and accommodations Jonathan needs, and they are able to push him out of his comfort zone while providing that support.

“They challenge him, but most of all they are patient,” Angela said. “Their unwavering support didn’t stop in the classroom. They were always making recommendations, and offering additional resources to assure his success.”

She said not only have his teachers been wonderful, but the therapists at Miriam are truly experts in their field. “They are an extension of the classroom. I love that they work with the teachers to support classroom learning.” 

It was while Jonathan was attending the lower school that Miriam opened its high school. Jonathan and his parents could not have been more relieved.

“To say we were thrilled is such an understatement, an over-simplified emotion,” Angela said. “Miriam was a Godsend, our lifeline. We had endured such a rigorous, exhaustive, intense search trying to find the best fit for our son. The mere thought of starting that search again, and for a high school kid, was daunting.”

The exceptional, individualized education Jonathan had received at the lower/middle school continued in grades 9-12. The high school also added in life skills courses, experiential learning and transition services.

As Jonathan prepares to embark on the next chapter of his journey, his experiences at Miriam have equipped him with the confidence and resilience to navigate the challenges that lie ahead.

“Miriam has surpassed our expectations. Jonathan wakes up each morning excited to go to school,” Angela said. “He feels successful. The community of teachers, specialists and administrators have been amazing.”

Jonathan will receive his diploma on Friday, May 10. He is planning to attend the University of Missouri St. Louis SUCCEED program in the fall.