Research shows that students with disabilities are less likely to be employed after high school graduation, compared to their peers without the same challenges. Miriam High School’s Experiential Learning Program (ELP) creates programming that allows students to graduate with not only a diploma from an accredited high school, but also a rich portfolio of skills for life. As a private school, we have the ability to create a dynamic schedule that would enable groups of students to be out in the community every day.
THE BENEFITS:
- Practicing life skills and social skills: During out-of-school learning experiences, students speak for themselves, ask questions, follow directions, and practice making decisions.
- Coping skills: Students learn to navigate conflict and change, practice problem-solving, and gain an understanding of the world beyond high school.
- Exploring strengths and passions: Students will have many opportunities to experience new skills and situations, explore their passions and hobbies, and gain self-awareness and confidence in their abilities
- Focusing on the whole student: The Experiential Learning Program will supplement Miriam’s small class sizes, integrated therapy services, and individualized curriculum to provide a truly well-rounded experience.
- Job readiness: Students will develop practical job skills needed to obtain and maintain jobs or volunteer opportunities, while exploring their personal interests. They’ll learn how to work as part of a team, and gain time and project management skills.
- Community Partnerships: Miriam is working with a number of partners within the community who are welcoming to our students and open to helping them during this journey. We will continue to seek out more businesses and organizations that will provide such opportunities. Our current partners include Access Point Program, AGC of Missouri, Dream Big, Project Success, Ranken Technical Institute, Schnucks, Skills Center, and STEP-UP Program. If you’d like to become a community partner, contact Meg Bamford at mbamford@miriamstl.org or call our Business Office at 314-968-3893.
SEE THE EXPERIENCIAL LEARNING PROGRAM IN ACTION:
- One of Mrs. Higgins’ classes planned a school-wide Friendsgiving meal and budgeted for the shopping trip, then shopped at Schnucks, cooked and served the meal. Watch a news story on KMOV-TV here!
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Students in Mr. Walker’s “Explore Your Future” class were able to take a first-hand look at career options in the field of construction. The Build My Future event from AGC of Missouri at St. Louis Community College gave students a chance to talk with professionals in the field and try their hand at various practices.
- A science class wrapped up their unit on weathering, erosion and cave formation with a trip to Meramec Caverns to experience those concepts in person.
- Life Skills students created a budget to rent and furnish an apartment. Then, they visited IKEA to choose furnishings that fit their style, as well as their budget.
