The Miriam Difference
Miriam School and Learning Center is the ONLY K-12 school in the Greater St. Louis area offering a true educational home for students with complex learning needs.
Miriam is a unique educational environment, tailored for students with average to above-average intelligence who are able to thrive with a fully integrated, therapeutic and educational curriculum, small class sizes, and a strengths-based approach.
Complex Needs
Miriam is not a school that specializes in one specific diagnosis - our strength is addressing the co-occurring and complex needs that our students face. Whether challenges stem from learning disabilities, ADHD, autism, auditory processing or sensory disorders, speech/language challenges, anxiety, or something else, our multi-disciplinary team designs an approach that supports each student’s entire learning profile.
What makes us different?
Miriam addresses the needs, not the diagnosis. There is no “one-size-fits-all” approach, as we wrap around each child with a truly personalized learning plan.
Integrated Therapies
Miriam is the only school in the area with fully integrated speech/language and occupational therapy services, delivered by a substantial on-site team that includes three full-time occupational therapists, two certified occupational therapy assistants, and five full-time speech/language pathologists.
What makes us different?
Other schools may offer movement programs or wellness rooms, but at Miriam, therapy is woven through every part of a student’s daily life. Occupational therapists (OTs) and Speech/Language Pathologists (SLPs) are integral members of the education teams, pushing into classrooms for lessons, co-teaching, and supporting student learning. This foundational support includes a sensory diet built into every student’s schedule twice a day (K-8), preparing their bodies and brains for learning. The OT rooms at both buildings are available not only for students who receive specific OT sessions, but for anyone who needs a movement break or a calming environment.
As Long As You Need Us
Miriam is here for students for as long as they need us. Our goal is not to remediate and rush students back to a typical school setting, nor is it to keep all students here for their entire educational journey. Miriam’s philosophy recognizes that the right amount of time for specialized support is unique to every child.
What makes us different?
Some students may need us for just a few crucial years, while others stay for 12. Students may even leave Miriam after a few years and then return for high school to take advantage of our small classes, unique curricular options and robust transition program. We respect each student’s individual journey.
Expert Staff, Unconditional Acceptance
Miriam operates with a deep belief that the right support will change lives. Our staff members are experts in diverse learning profiles. They meet each student exactly where they are and respond with individualized support and attention. This environment of unconditional acceptance fosters a powerful, shared understanding among the students, as well, as they support one another while working to address their own challenges.
What makes us different?
We do not expect our students to fit a specific profile or program. We look at a student’s strengths and then work together as a team to address their needs. We celebrate milestones both big and small.
Beyond Miriam
Students thrive at Miriam and are well equipped to follow their own paths after they leave. In fact, 100 percent of graduating seniors have a plan for their next step. Miriam High School offers an extensive transition program that includes planning for college, the workforce or other program.
What makes us different?
In addition to the post-high school plan, students graduate with a portfolio of skills for life. They have concrete, practiced skills in managing a budget, writing a resume and cover letter, applying for a job, advocating for their health needs, following a recipe, staying organized, and building lasting friendships. Miriam students are ready for what comes next.
Ready to see the difference?
If your child has complex learning needs and would benefit from a school that integrates therapy and academics seamlessly, we encourage you to start the application process. We look forward to learning about your student and their unique path.