"My confidence is better, because of the help from my teachers."

Walking through the hallway at Miriam High School, it is impossible to miss Ethan’s big, friendly smile. His positive attitude and good nature emanate from that smile, and you know he’s someone you want to meet.

Ethan’s journey hasn’t been an easy one, especially when it comes to academics, but he doesn’t let that squash his joy for life and – now that he’s at Miriam – his joy for learning.

Since joining Miriam in eighth grade, Ethan, now a sophomore, has impressed his teachers with his eagerness to learn and grow. Known for his willingness to embrace new challenges, Ethan also shines in his social interactions, always ready to lend a helping hand. Teachers have watched his confidence grow, a testament to his resilience and the supportive environment at Miriam.

Born with a rare genetic disorder, Ethan navigates learning, speech, and mobility challenges, as well as other medical issues. His mother, Cheryl, homeschooled Ethan until middle school. 

Ethan's brief stint in public school during seventh grade proved challenging, as he was unable to access the necessary resources and services for success. Cheryl pulled him out in October and continued to homeschool until enrolling at Miriam in eighth grade.

“There’s a home at Miriam for any kid who has multiple challenges they have to deal with,” Cheryl said. 

At Miriam, Ethan receives intensive speech therapy, occupational therapy, one-on-one time with a reading specialist, and accommodations in the classroom. Cheryl emphasized the impact of Miriam's small class sizes on Ethan's education. This intimate setting allows his teachers to deeply understand his unique needs.

“I think what’s key is the individualized attention that he gets, and the support when he struggles with things. If he needs help, all he needs to do is ask, and they’ll give him the extra time he needs. They just understand his struggles.”

For example, she said Ethan has a tendency to hold his mouth open when just sitting quietly. Speech Pathologist Carrie Lorenz talked with his teachers and devised a secret signal to remind Ethan to close his mouth.

“That’s communication on all levels,” Cheryl said.

Ethan's parents looked at numerous options for private schools, and just couldn’t find anywhere else that offered support for students like Ethan who need extra help. 

“Sending Ethan to Miriam gives me a place with the experts who know how to help him overcome his academic challenges – and also to work with him on those challenges, helping him to grow to his best abilities,” Cheryl said.

Vicki Thurman, the principal of Miriam High School, proudly notes Ethan's remarkable academic strides over his 1.5 years in high school. 

His most notable achievement is in math, where he has advanced from a sixth-grade level to a ninth-grade level. Additionally, Ethan is diligently working to enhance his reading skills, narrowing the gap in this area as well.   

Cheryl said she also appreciates that Miriam is looking ahead to Ethan’s future, and helping guide him and his family in finding programs available to help him. 

“Miriam is about educating the whole person,” Cheryl said. “He’s learning algebra and history, but also learning how to manage his money, learning about good nutrition, and learning daily life skills (through the Miriam Essentials curriculum). He’s growing as a person.”

Ethan says he loves Miriam because of the friendly people and the supportive staff. “My confidence is better, because of the help from my teachers,” he said. “It’s a great place to learn.”