Memories are inspired by photos… By diaries… And by keys?
At Miriam, the answer is 100-percent yes. Anyone who leaves or graduates from Miriam Lower/Middle School receives a transition key – a symbol that they will always have a home at Miriam School.
“People love it here, and it’s a hard place to leave,” said Mary Cognata, head of the Lower/Middle School. “It’s a way to let them know that they are always part of our community, and we want them to feel like they are welcome.”
No, it does not actually unlock the door, but it is a memento that holds a lot of power. This unique school transition tradition helps reinforce the bond between students and the Miriam community.
Cognata said when she sees a former student, they nearly always mention still having their key. One former student wears it around his neck.
This tradition started more than 27 years ago – before Cognata, who has been here 25 years, and before Jane Colt, who is retiring this summer after 27 years as executive assistant. She may not know exactly when it started, but Cognata is confident it will continue well into the future.
“I think it means more to them than getting a diploma. You would think we gave them a winning lottery ticket!” Cognata said.
“But it reminds them of their happy times here. And even when they have had difficult times, they knew people cared for them. They knew they were in a place where people believed in them.”
The transition key symbolizes the strong sense of belonging and support that students experience throughout their educational journey at Miriam. It is a tangible reminder of the school’s commitment to fostering lasting memories and a supportive school culture.
By integrating these traditions and keepsakes, Miriam School continues to build a legacy of educational excellence and a nurturing community in St. Louis that extends beyond graduation.
Miriam High School 2024 graduate, Drake Wilkerson, watched his brother leave for college three years ago, and he wanted a similar experience
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a commonly misunderstood condition that affects both children and adults. Misinformation and myths often lead to misconceptions about its nature and impact.
A group of Miriam High School students took a bold step last year, stretching their comfort zones and joining an after-school club run by STL Rock School. Julie Altnether visited once per week to work with the students, who formed the band The Pyros.
Miriam School and Learning Center is pleased to announce the appointment of nine members to the board of directors, as well as a new board chair, Kristen Bowser. These additions will support the nonprofit’s work to empower unique learners, bringing the total number of board members to 26.
Miriam Summer FUNdamentals is offering more camps this year than ever before to help kids with learning and thinking differences maintain - and gain - skills during the summer.
Memories are inspired by photos… By diaries… And by keys? At Miriam, the answer is 100-percent yes. Anyone who leaves or graduates from Miriam Lower/Middle School receives a transition key – a symbol that they will always have a home at Miriam School.
Miriam ushered 21 seniors off to the next step of their journey with a graduation ceremony that was just like the rest of their experiences here - completely personalized.
Miriam High School teacher Lori Lipkind already retired once - after a long career of teaching in public schools. She wasn’t finished working with students, though, so she came to Miriam four years ago
Miriam School and Learning Center exceeded goals and expectations on April 13, with the inaugural Minds in Bloom Spring Soiree. Nearly 250 people attended the sold-out event, which was held at Danforth Plant Science Center.
Women of Achievement has announced that Linda Estell, long-time Miriam volunteer and board member, has been selected as one of the 2024 Women of Achievement.
Last Friday, our Next Steps Transition Fair and our Variety Show led to another festive and fun Friday at Miriam High School. We were thrilled to have 30 vendors join us for the Fair. It was wonderful to have family members participate and to observe our children shine.
Miriam School and Learning Center is proud to announce its selection to be featured on the esteemed public television show, Viewpoint.
How do we help our kids gain confidence in trying something new? I think it is shifting from celebrating the final product, whether it is an art project or a final grade, to celebrating the steps it took for your child to get to the end of the process.
The high school is piloting an internship program this year - called Volunteer Work-Based Learning - that they hope to expand to many more students in the future. In conjunction with the work experience, Miriam staff provide training in job skills, soft/interpersonal skills and independent living.
It is very important for children, no matter who they are, to be given and expected to do chores that are developmentally appropriate. For Miriam’s children, completing chores is critical for their sense of confidence and competency.