FAQs

A: Parents select Miriam School as a place where they recognize that their child can actually thrive, rather than survive, during the school day.  Miriam’s unique approach includes personalized educational programming and integration of special education, speech/language and occupational therapies to create a nurturing and intentional environment that challenges, but supports, the student learning process.

A: Yes. Miriam is accredited by The Independent Schools Association of the Central States (ISACS). Miriam School’s program has been approved by the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE).

A: Our total enrollment capacity is around 100 students in grades K-8. We are designed to be a small school so we can focus on each student’s needs.

A: Typically students begin our program in Kindergarten, though we can accommodate students at age 4.  The oldest student in our building are in 8th grade.

A: Miriam School students thrive in multi-grade classrooms designed to support their unique academic and social development needs.  Class sizes are kept small, with dedicated teaching assistants shared between classrooms.  Lower school classrooms have between 10-12 children with one teacher and middle school classrooms can accommodate 12-14 students.

A: The school day runs from 8:30 until 3:30. Extended day services are available beginning at 7 am before school and until 6 pm after school.

A: We do not provide transportation, but our families come from all around the St. Louis are and many coordinate carpools.

A: We do not have a hot lunch program and students bring a lunch each day. We do offer a refrigerator and microwave to heat and cool foods as well as a milk program.

A: Yes. All students enjoy scheduled recess time either indoors or outdoors each day as well as two designated sensory breaks in the morning and the afternoon. Each class participates in physical education twice a week. During the school day frequent breaks and changes in activity help keep students engaged and motivated to learn.

A: No. Students dress in clothing that is comfortable and appropriate for a school setting.

A: Our calendar is very similar to other school calendars. The school year typically runs from mid August until late May, and includes a Thanksgiving Break, two-week Winter Break, and a one-week Spring Break. Other one-day holidays and staff training days also occur throughout the year.

A: We believe that a successful academic program reflects a school philosophy of high expectations for all and a respect for students’ innate desire to learn. Staff are skilled in providing a strong and comprehensive program founded in the acquisition of academic and social skills and practiced within the school setting. Miriam School homework guidelines simply emphasize the nightly practice of reading, an essential skill that enables students to be successful.  Teachers and therapists have also compiled a list of online resources  for families who want to work on academics at home.

A: Yes! The Miriam School Parent Association meets throughout the year to support the school. They organize school and class fundraisers and activities such as the Fall Family Dinner and the Annual Spring Picnic. Additionally, parents can volunteer to serve as Parent Mentors to incoming Miriam School families and volunteer for events like monthly Pizza Friday and Library. We also offer a parent support group led by a licensed therapist who facilitates discussion about parenting students who learn differently.  Parents are always invited to attend Miriam Empowers Through Education workshops held throughout the year where they can interact with other school parents and gain valuable insight from education professionals.

A: Miriam School student enrollment averages three to five years. The length of stay varies with individual student’s needs and age at enrollment, as well as with each family’s long term educational goals and financial circumstances. Miriam School provides comprehensive transition services to families as students leave for their next educational setting.

A: High school choice depends on the individual needs of each child. Some children transition to their local public high school, while others attend either private or independent secondary schools.  Miriam Academy is also an option for families looking to continue a Miriam education at the high school level. Our Transition Program assists families in choosing the right environment for their child and facilitates a smooth transfer of students into their new school.