![Rick Sandler Immersive Learning Program]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1766166888/jburroughsorg/fgvpnajiaknvx5ofcwkh/MiddleSchoolInterdisciplinary2025-13.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1766166888/jburroughsorg/fgvpnajiaknvx5ofcwkh/MiddleSchoolInterdisciplinary2025-13.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1766166888/jburroughsorg/fgvpnajiaknvx5ofcwkh/MiddleSchoolInterdisciplinary2025-13.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1766166888/jburroughsorg/fgvpnajiaknvx5ofcwkh/MiddleSchoolInterdisciplinary2025-13.jpg","width":828}])
In the week leading up to winter break, middle school students stepped away from their regular coursework to participate in the annual Rick Sandler Immersive Learning Program, a hands-on experience rooted in real-world learning and the St. Louis community.
Seventh graders focused on immigrant experiences in the city, listening to personal stories from recent immigrants, engaging with local organizations that support newcomers, participating in an immigration simulation, visiting the St. Louis Holocaust Museum, and collaborating on a design-thinking project that challenged them to apply what they learned.
Building on this foundation, 8th graders explored how local government shapes everyday life. Their week included meetings with community leaders and local officials, a guided walking tour of St. Louis neighborhoods, and a multi-day simulation in which they served as city council members, making decisions for the cities they designed.
Throughout the week, students practiced empathy, civic engagement, collaboration, and thoughtful problem-solving — hallmarks of the middle school interdisciplinary curriculum since its launch in December 2023.
Renamed in 2025, the program honors the legacy of longtime JBS English teacher Rick Sandler.
