Signature Programs
Science Night / Egg Drop
Each year, our Lower School community gathers for two signature events that spark curiosity, creativity, and a lifelong love of discovery. Science Night invites students back to campus for an exciting evening of hands-on STEM exploration. With the support of enthusiastic parent volunteers and faculty, students dive into engaging experiments and interactive challenges that make science come alive in meaningful, memorable ways.
The excitement continues the following afternoon with our Annual Egg Drop, a beloved tradition that encourages budding engineers to design a protective contraption—using only designated materials—to keep an egg safe when dropped from the school roof. Filled with anticipation, teamwork, and plenty of joyful surprises, the Egg Drop is a highlight of the year and a celebration of imaginative problem-solving and creative thinking.
Together, these experiences showcase our commitment to inspiring wonder, fostering community, and nurturing the next generation of curious thinkers, builders, and innovators.
ASHWorks Events
Each year, the Lower School community comes together for an ASHWorks design challenge event. This signature event rotates through a three-year cycle—the Regatta, the Car Race, and the Glider Race—with students designing and building their own boats, race cars, or glider planes in preparation for the big day.
During the Regatta, wind-powered sailboats, motorized “speed boats,” and engineered paddle boats skim across the water in a test of speed and stability. The Car Race sends student-made wooden vehicles down a ramp to see which design can achieve the fastest run. In the Glider Race, carefully crafted planes launch across the gym as students and families watch to see which glider flies the farthest and fastest.
At the heart of this tradition is resilience. As students build, test, and refine their creations, they often encounter challenges that require them to rethink their approach, start over, or make thoughtful adjustments. This iterative process helps students gain confidence and experience the pride that comes from perseverance.
The ASHWorks Design Challenge is also a cherished community moment—filled with joy, cheering, and shared excitement. It’s an event that brings the whole Lower School together and reminds us of the power of learning, discovery, and community.
Chicago Connections – Pen Pals & Chicago Visit
Each year, Grade 4 students culminate their Lower School journey with a meaningful tradition that connects them to the broader Sacred Heart Network. Midway through the year, each student is paired with a pen pal from our Network school in Chicago, exchanging letters and building friendships that set the stage for an unforgettable adventure.
The experience comes to life during an overnight trip to Chicago, where students explore some of the city’s most iconic destinations. From discovering marine life at the Shedd Aquarium to visiting Wrigley Field, the Children’s Museum, and the Willis Tower, the trip is filled with wonder, learning, and shared excitement.
The highlight of the journey is the visit to Schools of the Sacred Heart in Chicago, where students finally meet their pen pals in person. Together, they learn, play, and deepen the bonds that unite them as Children of the Sacred Heart—strengthening a sense of connection that extends far beyond their own campus.
Celebrated for more than 50 years, this cherished tradition is a joyful capstone to the Lower School experience and a powerful reminder of the enduring relationships and shared mission that define the Sacred Heart Network.
Through our signature programs, students grow as thinkers and friends as they learn to lead with open hearts, integrity, empathy, and responsibility.