Signature Programs

Deepen Your Passions. Expand Your Perspective.
Signature Programs

Holy Child's three honors-level academic Signature Programs offer students the opportunity to pursue their interests through immersive, interdisciplinary learning.

Spanning two years, each program combines advanced coursework, experiential learning, and a research-based capstone project, empowering students to think critically, solve complex challenges, and graduate with a distinct academic focus.
 


 

Advanced Humanities Institute (AHI)

Understanding the World Through Human Experience

AHI explores the intersection of history, literature, psychology, philosophy, and the arts to deepen students' understanding of culture, identity, and society. Through discussion, research, and immersive experiences, students become thoughtful communicators, critical thinkers, and engaged global citizens.

Engineering, Architecture & Design for the Common Good (EAD)

Designing Solutions That Make a Difference

Blending engineering, architecture, design thinking, and the arts, EAD challenges students to address real-world problems through creativity and innovation. Hands-on projects and collaborative learning prepare students to design with purpose and lead with impact.

Leadership Institute in Finance (LIF)

Leading with Financial Confidence

LIF introduces students to finance, economics, entrepreneurship, and ethical leadership through real-world experiences and applied learning. Students develop the analytical skills, confidence, and financial literacy needed to excel in college, internships, and future careers.

Upper School Experience

Advisory

Belonging, Reflection, and Growth

Advisory is a foundational part of the Upper School experience at Holy Child, providing each student with consistent connection, guidance, and support throughout her high school journey.

In addition to daily attendance and check-in, students meet during dedicated advisory periods throughout the school day. These structured sessions are intentionally designed to support students academically, socially, and emotionally. 

Each group is small and led by a faculty advisor who serves as a consistent point of support and mentorship for students over multiple years.

Conversations and activities often focus on themes such as:
  • Academic planning and goal setting
  • Balancing academic challenge and well-being
  • Time management and organization
  • Preparation for assessments and midterm exams
  • A Thoughtfully Designed School Day

Our schedule is intentionally structured to balance academic challenge, personal growth, and community connection.

The Upper School day runs from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., with a late start on Wednesdays at 9:00 a.m. to support faculty collaboration and professional growth.

Students learn within a six-day rotating cycle, which allows classes to meet at different times of day, helping students stay engaged and develop flexible learning habits.

Key elements of the daily experience include:
 

WIN (What I Need) Periods

Built-in time for academic support, enrichment, reading, community connection, or peer engagement. During WIN, students may:

  • Receive additional academic support
  • Attend Math Lab
  • Engage in structured community time
  • Connect with peers 

WIN helps students build independence, confidence, and strong self-advocacy skills.

 

Workshop Periods

Small-group instruction for students with documented learning plans, providing targeted academic strategies and support

 

Advisory Time

Structured moments for reflection, connection, and community building

 

 

Club Periods

Opportunities to explore interests, build friendships, and develop leadership across grade levels

 

Mid-Morning Break

A daily pause for movement, snacks, and transition between classes

This structure allows students to be both supported and independent, challenged and balanced.


 
 

Arts

Students explore creativity and self-expression through visual art, music, dance, and performance opportunities. These experiences often connect across grade levels, allowing students to collaborate, perform, and showcase their talents in meaningful ways.

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Athletics

Athletics are a key component of the Upper School experience for many students. 85% of Upper School students participate in at least one sport. Through athletics, students learn teamwork, perseverance, sportsmanship, and the importance of physical well-being.

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A Day Designed for Girls to Thrive

Every element of the Upper School experience is intentionally designed to help girls grow with confidence and build independence and leadership skills.

Through structure and flexibility, challenge and support, tradition and innovation, students develop the skills and mindset they need for life beyond our campus.

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Global Studies & Travel

Learning extends beyond the classroom through our Global Studies Program.

Each year, students have opportunities to participate in meaningful travel experiences that connect directly to their learning. These trips are designed to foster reflection, cultural understanding, service, and global awareness. These experiences help students see themselves as part of a larger global community.

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