Egg-tra Care Makes a Difference
Each year, Saint Catherine Academy transforms a classroom into a mini-hatchery, bringing the wonders of life cycles directly into the lives of our students. In partnership with Rent the Chicken, this month-long, hands-on science project provides students with the unique opportunity to observe and care for eggs from incubation to hatching in an interactive and engaging learning experience.
At the beginning of the project, Rent the Chicken delivers several eggs along with an incubator and all the necessary equipment needed to hatch and nurture the chicks in the classroom. The students embark on this educational journey, learning about the life cycle of a chicken, the intricacies of incubation, and the essential aspects of chick care.
Throughout the month, students monitor the eggs’ progress, eagerly awaiting the first signs of hatching. They check on the eggs daily. Excitement reached its peak when the first cracks appeared, signaling the arrival of the chicks. The students watched as the tiny, fragile creatures emerged from their shells.
The project presented a real-life lesson in compassion and perseverance when one of the chicks hatched with a condition known as Wry Neck. This condition causes the chick’s head and neck to twist and tilt unnaturally, making it difficult for the chick to eat, drink, and walk.
Witnessing this struggle, the students learned the importance of empathy and problem-solving. Ms. Sabrina, one of our dedicated Academy staff, and Sr. Marilyn, an Academy teacher, took the chick under their wing—quite literally. They placed the chick in a small box, feeding it with a syringe and ensuring it received the care it needed. Ms. Sabrina continued her nurturing and took the chick home overnight, demonstrating the profound impact of dedication and love. After a few days of attentive care, the chick showed remarkable improvement. It regained mobility and began feeding itself, a testament to the power of extra care and support. This experience left a lasting impression on the students, teaching them that sometimes, a little extra love and effort can make a significant difference. “Everyone has the potential to grow, whether they are our students or our chicks; sometimes all it takes it a bit of extra TLC,” says Ms. Sabrina.
The students had not only witnessed the miracle of life from eggs to chicks but had also learned valuable lessons in responsibility, empathy, and the importance of perseverance. The joy and pride everyone felt was contagious as they watched their chicks healthy and thriving. Saint Catherine Academy’s annual hands-on science project, in partnership with Rent the Chicken, continues to be a highlight of our academic year. It brings science to life, fostering a deep connection between students and nature, and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
