Be Ready to Vote: Every Election Matters, Including the Primary on September 9

For the September 9, 2025, municipal primary, early voting is available from Tuesday, September 2 through Sunday, September 7, 2025.

At Carver, we believe that civic engagement has the power to transform lives and strengthen communities. That’s why we urge all eligible voters to be prepared to participate in every election—including the upcoming primary election on September 9.

Primary elections are often overlooked, yet they are just as crucial as Election Day itself. The outcome of a primary determines who will appear on your town’s final ballot this November. In many cases, the primary is where the real decisions are made.

We are proud that Secretary Thomas, a Carver volunteer and great friend, is leading efforts to advance Civic Education throughout Connecticut. Carver is honored to stand with her in this vital work.

In 2023, Carver took the CEO Pledge to become a Civically Engaged Organization (CEO) when the Secretary of State launched the initiative. We did so because, in our own words, civic engagement has a transformative power and a positive impact on the lives of Norwalk residents. Carver comprises diverse individuals who share collective goals like any other community. When community members actively participate in civic engagement, they contribute to the well-being and progress of their community in countless ways.

In a few days—and every election that follows—make your voice heard. Your vote matters. Your participation matters. Together, we create stronger communities when we all step forward.

Harnessing Awe and Project-Based Learning: Carver’s Pathway to Lifelong Curiosity

At Carver, we believe that after-school hours are among the most powerful windows for igniting curiosity, building confidence, and strengthening community connections. That’s why Project-Based Learning (PBL) is at the heart of our approach. More than just a teaching method, PBL is a powerful learning tool that engages students through real-world, hands-on STEAM projects, cultivating academic, social, and emotional skills in a flexible, supportive environment.

What Is Project-Based Learning?

PBL invites students to work on extended projects that tackle real-world problems or pressing questions. These projects integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines, helping students develop critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Instead of rote memorization, students dive into meaningful challenges—becoming active participants in their own education.

Why PBL Works in After-School Programs

• Boosts youth engagement: Students become invested by working on topics they care about and seeing the real-world impact of their efforts.

• Builds 21st-century skills: From teamwork and communication to time management and decision-making, students gain tools they’ll carry into the future.

• Fosters social and emotional growth: Group work helps students practice empathy, self-awareness, and perseverance while forming supportive relationships.

• Connects learning to community: Many PBL units involve family and community members, strengthening engagement and civic responsibility.

• Flexible and fun: Projects are tailored to student interests and learning styles, ensuring everyone contributes meaningfully.

Examples in Action

Carver students plan and host family engagement nights, taking the lead in organizing, managing, and presenting, which helps them develop leadership and responsibility. In STEAM-focused projects, students link academic concepts to real-world challenges, sparking curiosity and strengthening problem-solving skills.

The Transformative Power of Awe

At Carver, we weave awe into every PBL experience. Awe sneaks up on us mid-step, mid-thought, mid-breath—suddenly making the world feel a little bigger, a little more mysterious, and a lot more worth exploring. When students encounter awe through Driving Questions like “What can we learn from nature’s designs to solve human problems?” they are motivated to explore deeply, collaborate openly, and connect more meaningfully with others.

Research shows awe fosters curiosity, openness, and prosocial behavior. In PBL, awe inspires students to share ideas, support one another, and approach problems collectively. This makes learning not just an academic exercise but a socially connected, transformative experience.

Preparing Students for Tomorrow

In today’s world, rote memorization is no longer enough. Carver’s after-school PBL model, powered by awe, equips students with creativity, collaboration, empathy, and a lifelong love of learning. Our students don’t just master knowledge—they discover the joy of applying it to improve their world.

At Carver, awe is more than a fleeting feeling—it’s a guiding principle. Through PBL, awe fuels curiosity, builds resilience, and connects our students to one another, their community, and the larger world.

Carver Remembers and Honors the Life of Greg Burnett, A True Friend and Advocate

Carol Bauer and Norwalk Council Member At-Large Greg Burnett at the Carver Community Center’s groundbreaking ceremony for the new Teen Center

Carver joins the City of Norwalk in mourning the loss of Common Council Member Greg Burnett, a longtime public servant, advocate, and dear friend to our community.

Mr. Burnett was a constant presence at Carver through the years, celebrating our milestones and standing beside us as we worked to expand opportunities for young people. Last year, he joined city leaders at the groundbreaking for Carver’s new two-story Teen Center, sharing in a moment that symbolized growth, possibility, and hope for Norwalk’s future.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin shared her own heartfelt reflections:

“The news of Greg’s passing left me in shock. Only recently, he and I had been in touch about the Omega Psi Phi event in October, when they will be honoring me. Over the years, our paths crossed in so many meaningful ways, not just through his leadership in Norwalk, but also through the world of track and field. As a USA Track & Field official, Greg was a steady presence at countless meets where my sons competed. We spent many fun times together at those events, sharing the unique camaraderie of families and officials bound by the sport. He was even on the field this past June at the Outdoor National Championship, where my son Kyle earned three medals. To me, Greg embodied what it means to be both a servant leader and a friend—rooted in equity, inclusion, and community, while also celebrating the small personal victories that make life so rich. His kindness, encouragement, and commitment to young people will stay with me always.”

Greg dedicated himself to public service in Norwalk. First elected to the Common Council in 2017, he went on to serve as Council President, chair the Finance and Claims Committee, and contribute to many other committees addressing land use, community services, and affordable housing. He believed deeply in representing all residents and spoke often of the importance of listening, dialogue, and equity.

Carver Board President, Phil Butterfield, CEO Novelette Peterkin, and Greg Bernett

Outside of City Hall, Greg gave his time and wisdom to many causes. He served on the Norwalk Mentor Advisory Board, advised the Norwalk Salvation Army, and mentored young people with the same compassion and guidance he brought to his professional life. During his career with IBM, he held senior leadership positions in human resources and also found joy in athletics, serving as a certified USA Track & Field official.

L-R: Norwalk Council Member At-Large Greg Burnett, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, Mayor Harry Rilling, CT Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas, Carver board president Phil Butterfield, and Carol Bauer

Greg often described education as “the great equalizer” and believed every child deserves a robust and equitable learning experience. Those values are ones we share deeply at Carver, and we are grateful for his steadfast support of our mission to help students reach their highest potential.

Mayor Harry Rilling expressed it well when he noted that Greg’s devotion to public service made a lasting impact on the city he loved. That legacy will live on in the thousands of students and families whose lives he touched through his leadership and his friendship.

Carver extends heartfelt condolences to Greg’s family, friends, and colleagues. We will remember him not only for his service but also for his kindness, presence, and unwavering belief in the power of education and community.

Carver Day celebration in 2018! (L-R) Norwalk Common Council member, Greg Burnett; CT Senate Majority Leader, Bob Duff; CT Representative Terrie Wood; CT Representative and Carver board member Fred Wilms; Novelette Peterkin, Carver Executive Director; and CT Representative Gail Lavielle.

LabCorp PULSE Returns to Carver with Back-to-School Gifts and Spirit

Carver’s Emily Berleit (middle) is joined by Labcorp PULSE members, including Claudine Mosely the first to her left, and to the right of Emily, Reggie Pierre Louis Jacques and Olumide Towolawi.

Carver was honored to welcome back LabCorp PULSE members as they recently returned to deliver a generous collection of school supplies gathered through their annual Back-to-School Supplies Drive. This marks the second time this year that LabCorp PULSE has chosen Carver as its charity partner. We are deeply grateful for their continued support of our students and families.

The donation was made possible through the efforts of Labcorp’s Black Employee Resource Group (ERG) PULSE—Promoting Unity Through Legacy, Support, and Empowerment—whose Connecticut members personally visited Carver to present the supplies. Their presence transformed the moment into a shared exchange of values, vision, and commitment to building brighter futures for Norwalk’s youth.

Labcorp, officially known as Laboratory Corporation of America Holdings, is a global leader in laboratory diagnostics and drug development services, headquartered in Burlington, North Carolina, with operations in about 100 countries. With a mission to improve health and improve lives, Labcorp’s commitment to Carver reflects a shared dedication to empowering communities through opportunity, education, and innovation.

LabCorp PULSE is eager to continue growing its involvement with Carver, actively exploring additional ways to make a meaningful impact in our community. Their generosity directly supports Carver’s mission of providing education, enrichment, career development, and holistic support for nearly 3,000 students across Norwalk each year.

Thank you, LabCorp PULSE, for standing with Carver and believing in the potential of every young person we serve. Together, we look forward to building on this partnership for an even brighter future.

A Historic First Day: South Norwalk Elementary School Opens Its Doors After Four Decades

Yesterday marked a momentous occasion for Norwalk: the opening day of the brand-new South Norwalk Elementary School, located at 1 Meadow Street Extension. For the first time in more than 40 years, South Norwalk families sent their children to a true neighborhood school—an achievement that speaks to equity, community spirit, and a renewed investment in the city’s future.

Last Friday, August 22, 2025, the community came together for a festive opening celebration at the new South Norwalk Elementary School. Families enjoyed food, refreshments, and picnic-style fun, along with giveaways and valuable community resources. Guests explored the brand-new building through guided tours and met members of Carver’s After the Bell before- and after-school team. Special highlights included a “Walk to School” with Principal Austin and Vice Principal Rodriguez, a Touch-a-Truck activity, grab-n’-go lunches, and interactive tables hosted by Carver and other local organizations—Tricia Massucco and Sylvia Chaparro proudly represented Carver. The event offered a warm welcome for students and families, setting the tone for an exciting school year ahead.

A Return to Neighborhood Roots

South Norwalk lost its neighborhood school in the late 1970s during district desegregation efforts, leaving generations of students traveling long distances to attend schools outside their community. The new South Norwalk Elementary School restores what was lost, offering local children the chance to learn and thrive just blocks from home. This step forward addresses decades-old equity challenges and strengthens community bonds by placing education back at the center of the neighborhood.

A Modern Campus with Room to Grow

Built on 11.7 acres of land acquired from the former Hatch and Bailey Lumber Company, the new two-story, 86,000-square-foot facility is designed to serve up to 682 students. The school opened this week to kindergarten through third-grade students, with plans to expand to grades four and five in the coming years. Beyond classrooms, the site includes green space, improved traffic and parking flow, and even a basketball court for students’ recreation.

A $76 Million Community Investment

The $76 million project was made possible by strong city leadership and a favorable 60% state reimbursement rate. Years of planning, zoning, and construction came together just in time for the 2025–2026 academic year, ensuring that South Norwalk students could begin this school year in a new home built for them.

Beyond the Classroom

The school’s mission extends beyond academics. With support from community partners like Carver, students will have access to before- and after-school enrichment programs, family engagement opportunities, and resources that celebrate the cultural diversity of South Norwalk. The school is poised to become a hub of community connection.

Looking Ahead

This inaugural year welcomes kindergarten through third-grade students, with enrollment to expand in the years ahead. As the school reaches full capacity, it will serve students pre-K through fifth grade—cementing its role as a cornerstone of South Norwalk’s educational and community landscape.

The first day at South Norwalk Elementary was the beginning of a new chapter in the city’s history—one that restores neighborhood pride, invests in equity, and builds a brighter future for the children and families of South Norwalk.

Your Guide to the 2025–2026 Norwalk Public Schools Year

Reinventing Schools May Be the Headline—But Carver’s Proven Model Stands the Test of Time

Across the country, there’s no shortage of stories about the “reinvention” of schools. From bold new technologies to alternative schedules and curriculum redesigns, the headlines swirl with promises of transformation. While many of these ideas come and go, Carver has always known that the most powerful innovation is also the most timeless: certified daytime teachers who bring their expertise, relationships, and commitment to students beyond the school day.

At Carver, we don’t chase trends—we build futures. By extending the reach of the very educators who guide students through their school day, our out-of-school programs deliver personalized learning, social-emotional support, and enrichment experiences that meet each student where they are. This is not just “afterschool.” It is a seamless, holistic approach to education that reinforces classroom learning while helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and resilience.

We are fortunate to partner with Norwalk Public Schools (NPS), an institution of excellence navigating near-impossible challenges every day amid national and federal disruptions. Together, Carver and NPS work side by side to find solutions to today’s issues, ensuring that students are not only supported, but lifted. Our shared mission is clear: every student deserves to thrive, in school and beyond.

Carver’s commitment to excellence was affirmed this week by independent reviewers. After months of rigorous analysis, the Better Business Bureau recently declared that Carver once again meets all 20 BBB Standards for Charity Accountability—the highest measure of nonprofit trustworthiness, transparency, and governance. This endorsement reflects not only Carver’s integrity but also our steadfast dedication to stewarding resources wisely and maximizing impact for every student we serve.

The result? Outcomes that never grow old: 100% of Carver seniors have graduated on time since 2005, and nearly all become the first in their families to attend college.

As education debates continue, Carver remains steady. Innovation matters—but so does what lasts. And what lasts are dedicated teachers, trusted partners, personalized support, and a community that believes in every student’s potential.

Crane NXT Renews $5,000 Gift to Carver — With a Special New Addition to the Celebration

Bill Alexander standing with Nikki LaFaye, Carver Director of Philanthropy, with Bill’s daughter Isa, looking on.

Today, Carver was delighted to welcome back a familiar face — and meet two brand new ones! Bill Alexander, Accounting Supervisor at Crane NXT (and proud new dad!), stopped by to present a generous $5,000 annual renewal gift from Crane’s philanthropic arm, Crane Charitable Funds. Joining Bill were his wife, Tricia, and their beautiful newborn daughter, Isa, whose name honors Tricia’s Filipino roots and means “number one.”

Bill’s connection to Carver runs deep. Growing up in Norwalk, he spent countless hours playing basketball on Carver’s court, creating memories that continue to inspire his support today. Now living in Stamford, where Crane is headquartered, Bill remains a dedicated advocate for Carver’s mission. Each visit, he says, leaves him more impressed by our continued growth and the impact we’re making in the community.

We are so grateful to Bill and everyone at Crane NXT for their inspiring partnership and belief in Carver students. Your generosity fuels our programs, strengthens our initiatives, and helps us open new doors of opportunity for the youth of Norwalk.

Congratulations to Bill and Tricia on the arrival of baby Isa — and thank you for making this visit one for the memory books!

From Summer Success to a Bright New School Year: Carver Kids Are Ready for 2025–26!

Carver’s Summer 2025 programs wrapped up with incredible energy, growth, and unforgettable experiences for our students—and we can’t wait to build on that momentum when the 2025–26 school year begins on Monday, August 25!

This summer, Carver programs reached more than 1,400 young people across Bridgeport and Norwalk, each opportunity designed to inspire curiosity, build skills, and foster connections:

• Kick-Off to Kindergarten (Bridgeport): 90 children across six sites gained confidence and readiness for their first big school year.

• Summer Transition (Norwalk): 460 rising 6th and 9th graders at five school sites prepared for new academic and social environments.

• Full-Day Enrichment Camps: 500+ youth thrived at Carver Center, SoNo, and Jefferson with hands-on STEAM, arts, and wellness programs.

• After the Summer Bell (Kendall School): 150 students enjoyed full-day care blending academics and enrichment.

• Summer Run & LOVE Unit: 120 students developed basketball skills, leadership, and mentorship connections.

• Ecology School in Maine: 83 students explored tidepools, canoed, and hiked, discovering the wonder of the natural world.

These experiences built skills, friendships, and confidence that will carry into the school year ahead.

As we look toward August 25, we are ready to welcome Carver students back for another year of academic support, enrichment, and opportunity. Here’s to an exciting 2025–26 school year, filled with learning, growth, and new adventures!

Berries, Barnyards, and Big Smiles: Carver Campers Explore Silverman’s Farm

Plucking sweet blueberries at Silverman’s Farm yields a joyful day of exploration, learning, and connection for Carver’s youngest summer campers.

This week, our 5- and 6-year-old campers ventured to Easton, CT, to experience the magic of Silverman’s Farm, a local treasure celebrating its 102nd year. Founded in 1923 by Ben Silverman—who, like Carver’s own namesake, George Washington Carver, had a deep love of plants and gardening—this farm has been a place of hard work, community, and growth for generations.

Ben Silverman was born in New York City in 1898 and moved to Connecticut as a young man, working on cow farms for just a dollar a day. After saving enough money while working at a munitions factory during WWI, he purchased land in Easton and began building the farm that still thrives today on Sport Hill Road.

In the 1970s and ’80s, Silverman’s transformed into the pick-your-own fruit farm beloved by families across the region. Today, it features not only a wide-spread orchard and scenic tractor rides, but also a lively petting zoo filled with friendly barnyard animals and fowl—making it an ideal summer outing for curious young minds.

For Carver campers, the visit was full of wonder. From picking their own blueberries to meeting goats and peacocks, the children had a blast engaging all their senses. Beyond the excitement, the experience encouraged discovery, teamwork, and a deeper appreciation for nature and local history.

We are grateful to Silverman’s Farm for welcoming our Carver campers into this special tradition and helping create summertime memories that will last a lifetime.