🎭 From Quesadillas to Costumes: Naramake After the Bell Students Learn Through Creativity and Play

At Naramake Elementary School, Carver’s After the Bell program is serving up imagination and life skills in equal measure. Two recent hands-on enrichment activities—Acting Out with Ms. Karen Hall and cooking with Mrs. Miranda—show how after-school experiences nurture literacy, confidence, and joy in learning.

In Acting Out, local author and storyteller Ms. Karen Hall brings her famous trunk of interactive props—lovingly known as “Chester”—to inspire students to step into the world of storytelling. Dressed in costume, students performed a play about fall and Halloween, learning how to use voice, movement, and imagination to bring stories to life. Ms. Karen’s program, ideal for children ages 2 through 8, transforms storytelling into a full-body, laughter-filled experience that builds vocabulary, confidence, and empathy.

Meanwhile, down in the school cafeteria, Mrs. Miranda led a group of young chefs through the art of making quesadillas—measuring, spreading, folding, and toasting their creations to perfection. Beyond the delicious results, the children practiced teamwork, fine motor skills, and following directions while learning about ingredients and cultures.

These joyful experiences highlight what makes after-school programs like After the Bell so transformative. Unlike traditional classrooms, after-school environments create safe, pressure-free spaces where learning feels natural and personal. Children are encouraged to explore who they are and what they enjoy—whether through writing a story, performing one, or cooking something new. There are no grades, only growth.

At their best, after-school programs help children discover their voices, build confidence, and develop literacy skills that last a lifetime. At Naramake, the recipe is simple: imagination, encouragement, and a dash of fun.

Bankwell Brings Financial Literacy to Life for Carver Middle Schoolers

L-R, Back Row: Carver Manager Waid Ramsubhag; Carver staff member Cherae Kingwood; Estephany Rivera-Munoz, Bankwell AVP, Retail Support Office at Bankwell; Abby Lemus, Bankwell Assistant Branch Manager, Darien; and Kevin Cardona.

Yesterday, Carver’s Youth Development Program (YDP) middle school students at the Carver Community Center got a hands-on introduction to financial literacy, thanks to our longtime partner Bankwell. This interactive workshop is part of Bankwell’s deep commitment to empowering young people with real-world financial knowledge through community partnerships.

Bankwell has stood beside Carver for years, sponsoring programs that help our students grow academically, socially, and personally. Just last month, the bank announced a new financial literacy course tailored for middle school students—a natural extension of its mission to equip youth with the tools to succeed. Yesterday’s session brought that mission into action.

The workshop began in a playful but purposeful way: students were given (play) “twenty-dollar bills” and asked simple but powerful questions:

• What is money?

• How do you save it?

• What is an ATM?

• What are loans?

From there, facilitators guided lively discussions about the difference between checking and savings accounts and the importance of saving versus spending. Using relatable examples—such as whether it’s smarter to buy a fourth pair of sneakers or save money for future goals—students were challenged to think critically about their choices.

Several students proudly shared that they already have bank accounts, while others filled the room with questions about banking, money, and even interest. The facilitators also shared their own career journeys in banking, demonstrating to students what it takes to build a professional path in the financial services industry.

Waid Ramsubhag, Manager of the Carver After School Program for Education and Recreation (CASPER) and Jr. YDP, reflected on the value of the experience:

“Workshops like these go far beyond financial lessons,” Waid shared. “They give our students opportunities to build character, ask meaningful questions, and engage with professional role models from the community.”

This month’s program is just the start. Later in October, the same group of middle schoolers will take a field trip to Bankwell’s Norwalk branch—with many already eager to see the vault(!).

Carver extends a heartfelt thank you to Nancy Caccia, FVP | Community Relations at Bankwell and the entire Bankwell team for bringing energy, knowledge, and care to our students. Their dedication demonstrates that financial literacy isn’t just about numbers—it’s about empowering kids with the confidence and skills to make informed decisions for their futures.

Buzzing with Knowledge: Volunteer Erica Smith Teaches Carver Students About Bees and Beekeeping

Carver’s After the Bell students at Naramake Elementary School recently had the unique opportunity to learn firsthand about the fascinating world of honey bees from Erica Smith, a local volunteer beekeeper. With her passion for bees and the environment, Erica brought the world of pollinators alive through an engaging mix of science, storytelling, and hands-on discovery.

Bees are often called a “science class with wings,” offering insights into biology, ecology, nutrition, and environmental stewardship. Erica shared with Carver students the critical role that bees play in sustaining Connecticut agriculture and ecosystems. She explained how honey bees help pollinate the foods we eat every day and why their declining populations are cause for concern across the globe.

Through interactive demonstrations, Erica inspired curiosity about the world’s 20,000 bee species and introduced kid-friendly ways students can help, such as planting pollinator-friendly gardens, providing clean water sources, and creating safe habitats. She also highlighted how environmental changes, pesticides, and habitat loss contribute to bee population decline—and how small actions can make a big difference in turning the trend around.

Erica promotes the advancement of scientific knowledge of beekeeping and helps welcome new people into the hobby, building awareness that Connecticut is not only a vital agricultural state but also a growing center for honey production. Her work mirrors the mission of organizations like the Connecticut Beekeepers Association (CBA), which provides resources and education to help communities learn more about pollinators and their importance to both farmers and families.

For Carver students, Erica’s visit was more than a lesson—it was an invitation to be stewards of the environment. With the help of local experts and community partners, Carver continues to spark curiosity and nurture a love of learning that extends beyond the classroom.

🌱 Get Involved!

Carver’s programs thrive because of volunteers like Erica who bring knowledge, passion, and creativity to our students. If you’d like to make a difference by sharing your skills, time, or enthusiasm, we’d love to hear from you.

👉 For more information and to apply, please visit this Carver website VOLUNTEER page.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators Lead Norwalk High School Students to Success at Black College Expo

On Saturday, September 27, 2025, Carver’s Future Readiness Coordinators, Iman LaBorde-Mobley and Isiah Gaddy, brought 13 Norwalk High School students to the 14th Annual New York Black College Expo at Long Island University’s Brooklyn campus—home to Jay Z’s Rocnation School of Music, Sports & Entertainment.

The day proved to be transformative. Nine students received on-the-spot college acceptances and scholarships, a powerful affirmation of their hard work and potential. For many, this was the first time they experienced the possibility of a direct pathway to higher education becoming a reality right before their eyes.

The Black College Expo, organized by the National College Resources Foundation (NCRF), aims to close educational and economic disparities by connecting underserved and at-risk students with higher education and career opportunities. This year’s event featured more than 50 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), as well as other universities, offering students the chance to:

• Receive immediate admissions decisions by bringing transcripts and test scores

• Benefit from waived application fees

• Earn on-site scholarships

• Explore job and internship opportunities

• Attend interactive seminars and enjoy entertainment, including a cash prize dance-off

The event welcomed students of all ages and their families, drawing thousands to LIU’s Brooklyn campus for a day of opportunity, celebration, and connection.

Since its founding, NCRF has helped more than 600,000 students secure college admissions and over $3 billion in scholarships. For Carver students, the Expo provided not only access to higher education but also encouragement to dream bigger and believe in themselves.

Carver’s Future Readiness Coordinators play a vital role in these life-changing experiences. By guiding students through college and career exploration, helping them prepare applications, and exposing them to opportunities like the Black College Expo, Iman and Isiah ensure that Carver’s promise—100% high school graduation and pathways to college and careers—remains strong.

This year’s trip to the Black College Expo is just one example of how Carver supports Norwalk’s youth in building brighter futures. The excitement and achievements from this day will ripple forward, inspiring not only the students who attended but also their peers, families, and the community.

From Inquiry to Impact: How Carver’s Project-Based Learning Is Powering Success in 2025–26

As Carver kicks off the 2025–26 school year, we’re doubling down on a powerful educational approach that is reshaping how students engage, learn, and grow: Project-Based Learning (PBL). Already woven throughout our after-school and summer programming through the years, PBL is now a foundational pillar in the new academic year—a catalyst for deeper understanding, creativity, and real-world readiness.

What Is PBL — and Why It Matters

Project-based learning is more than a class activity or occasional “hands-on” project. It’s a learning process in which students explore open-ended, real-world problems, ask compelling questions, and pursue multiple pathways to solutions. In PBL, the students’ inquiry drives the work—not simply a teacher-led lecture or assignment.

Some key features of high-quality PBL include:

• A driving question or challenge that is meaningful and rooted in context

• Opportunities for student voice and choice in how they investigate and demonstrate learning

• Integrated, cross-disciplinary skills (e.g. literacy, math, science, arts)

• Cycles of feedback, revision, and reflection

• A public product or presentation that shares learning beyond the classroom

This method aligns with research showing that PBL fosters deeper mastery of content, stronger student engagement, improved critical thinking, and transferable “21st-century” skills — such as collaboration, communication, self-directed inquiry, resilience, and adaptability. In fact, recent studies confirm that PBL significantly improves academic outcomes and higher-order thinking compared to traditional instruction.

PBL also supports equity: students whose first language is not English and learners with disabilities can engage in meaningful, scaffolded inquiry. Because the learning path can flex to their interests and strengths, everyone has a seat at the table.

PBL at Carver: Hands-On, Student-Driven Learning

Instead of adding “extra” projects onto lessons, Carver educators use PBL to drive the curriculum itself. Students identify real-world questions, conduct research, build models, test solutions, and present findings. Whether they’re creating community service projects, designing science experiments, exploring the arts, or developing wellness initiatives, the students’ curiosity sets the course. Teachers and mentors serve as facilitators, guiding inquiry and encouraging reflection.

This approach connects academics to everyday life, helping students see themselves as problem-solvers and leaders.

Why PBL Will Elevate Carver Students in 2025–26

1. Meaningful, deep learning
PBL bridges classroom content with real-world relevance. Students understand why what they learn matters, and they apply it—in their community, their interests, and their future.

2. Skill-building for life, not just tests
In an era where careers may evolve rapidly and problems rarely have one “right” solution, PBL equips students to think flexibly, collaborate across differences, and adapt to new challenges.

3. Differentiation and inclusion
Because PBL allows multiple entry points, pathways, and ways to demonstrate mastery, it naturally meets students where they are—whether they are a multilingual learner, a student with learning differences, or someone whose strengths lie outside traditional assessments.

4. Strengthened engagement and agency
When students see themselves as creators, not just consumers, their sense of ownership grows. They take responsibility for problem-solving, self-assessment, revision, and growth.

5. Research-backed outcomes
Well-implemented PBL enhances performance in science, literacy, and social studies—on both standardized assessments and in everyday classroom activities—and supports social-emotional growth.

Vision for 2025–26: Goals and Growth

Over the 2025–26 year, Carver aims to deepen PBL across grade levels:

• Scale PBL-infused modules across core subjects, not just in special programs

• Provide ongoing professional development to teachers as facilitators of inquiry

• Foster partnerships and community projects so students’ work is relevant and visible

• Incorporate reflective assessment practices that balance content mastery and student growth

• Leverage technology and emerging tools to streamline scaffolding and boost creativity

We’ll encourage cross-campus sharing of PBL units and student showcases, giving learners a real audience and amplifying their voices.

In Closing

As this school year begins, Carver’s embrace of Project-Based Learning is a promise. It’s the promise that our students will learn to tackle real problems with confidence, curiosity, and heart. It’s the promise that every student—regardless of background or learning style—will find pathways to thrive. And as each project unfolds, we’ll be reminded: when learners lead, learning truly becomes their own.

Norwalk SoNo Branch Library Launches Free Scholar Support for Students, Expanding Resources for Carver Youth

Carver’s 65+ after-school and summer programs rely on the support of dozens of community partners, including the Maritime Aquarium and Earthplace, which connect our students to the wonders of nature. Among the most vital of these partners are Norwalk’s public libraries, which provide invaluable support to students and families throughout our community on a wide range of subjects.

The SoNo Branch Library at 10 Washington Street recently launched an exciting new initiative called Scholar Support, available on Saturdays and Sundays for students ages 10–18. This free program offers four one-hour slots each day, and advance sign-up is required.

Scholar Support provides:

• Homework, writing, and research help for students ages 10–18

• Career path consultations for students ages 16–18, helping teens prepare for college, vocational training, or workforce entry

• Technical skills support for students ages 14–18, recognizing the growing importance of digital literacy

The idea for Scholar Support originated with a former staff member who grew up in South Norwalk and dreamed of creating a local tutoring service. Working with SoNo Branch Manager Marcus Eason, the library team launched the program this fall to meet the academic and career needs of students and families.

To sign up for Scholar Support, call the SoNo Branch Library at 203-899-2790 or visit norwalklib.org/104/SoNo. If slots are full, students will be placed on a waiting list.

At Carver, we celebrate these types of initiatives because they complement the academic, enrichment, and wellness supports our students receive through Carver programs during the week. Together, with trusted partners like the SoNo Branch Library, we are building a Norwalk where every child has the tools, resources, and encouragement to thrive.

How Carver’s Summer Programs Shape Bright Futures for the New School Year

As the 2025–26 school year begins, Carver students enter their classrooms more confident, prepared, and inspired thanks to one of the most creative, diverse, and effective summer program lineups in the nation. This summer, Carver delivered fifteen unique programs, serving 1,314 young people—from rising kindergartners in Bridgeport to rising sixth- and ninth-graders in Norwalk. Together, these programs blended academic support, enrichment, wellness, and joyful memories that will last a lifetime.

Enrichment Camps: A Summer of Learning and Discovery

Carver operated four vibrant enrichment camps at South Norwalk Neighborhood School, the Carver Community Center, Jefferson Elementary, and Kendall Elementary. Students engaged in hands-on math and literacy instruction, project-based learning, and recreation. Days were filled with excitement, from trips to the Maritime Aquarium, Bronx Zoo, Lake Compounce, Nutmeg Bowling, Earthplace, and Stepping Stones Museum. At Kendall Elementary, Carver extended the Norwalk Public Schools Summer Academy with After the Bell Enrichment, adding afternoons of interactive programming through August.

Building Partnerships for Growth

Two new partnerships expanded opportunities this summer. Ridgebury Farms, with support from the Conner Sheehan Fund, welcomed ten campers into a therapeutic, nature-based program that combined animal care, guided reflection, and outdoor learning. Meanwhile, LiveGirl hosted female campers ages 10–13, providing a three-week all-day camp in New Canaan with transportation arranged by Carver—ensuring no child missed out due to a waitlist.

Transitioning with Confidence: Middle & High School Programs

At Nathan Hale, Ponus, Roton, and West Rocks, rising sixth graders tackled morning academics and spent afternoons exploring arts, crafts, and wellness. Special field trips—from a ropes course in New Haven to Grit Ninja and Sky Zone—helped build teamwork and confidence.

For rising ninth graders, students from Norwalk High and Brien McMahon convened at Brien McMahon High School due to construction. Mornings focused on project-based math, English, and science, while afternoons brought enrichment through rowing on the Norwalk River, art workshops, and even movie outings. Students began high school with stronger academic foundations and new friendships.

Expanding Kindergarten Readiness in Bridgeport

Carver’s Kick-Off to Kindergarten program expanded to six sites across Bridgeport, enrolling 63 students—an increase of 18 from the previous year. With a curriculum that emphasizes literacy, math, science inquiry, and social-emotional learning, this half-day program provides young learners with a strong foundation.

Sleep-Away Camp: Building Resilience in Nature

For the fourth year, Carver sent middle school students to the Ecology School in Saco, Maine.

Eighty-four students and 12 staff immersed themselves in nature on a 105-acre farm. Canoeing, farming, tide pool exploration, carpentry, and nightly campfires deepened ecological literacy, resilience, and peer connection.

Returning students took on leadership roles, welcoming new campers into the fold.

Community Nights: Safe and Empowering Spaces

Closer to home, Carver hosted Summer Run at the Carver Center for 109 youth and the L.O.V.E. Unit at King Kennedy Housing for 34 young people. These evening basketball and empowerment programs kept students engaged in safe, structured, and positive activities throughout July.

Looking Ahead

Carver’s summer programs do far more than fill the summer months—they bridge learning gaps, foster creativity, promote wellness, and strengthen community ties. As the school year unfolds, the impact of these summer experiences will ripple through classrooms and communities, ensuring that Carver youth step into the academic year ready to succeed.

Celebrating Our Athlete of the Week – A Carver First!

Here is the link to the Instagram post above.

We’re thrilled to shine the spotlight on a truly exceptional student from Brien McMahon High School, Nick Sainthyle, who has just been named Athlete of the Week!

What makes this moment even more special? He’s the first soccer player to be awarded as the Athlete of the Week for this season.

A proud junior, Nick Sainthyle balances his academic responsibilities with the passion and commitment he brings to the soccer field. He’s not only dedicated to his sport, but he also consistently maintains above-average grades — a true example of what it means to be a student-athlete.

Nick Sainthyle is the youngest in his family and follows in the footsteps of his two older sisters, both proud Carver alumnae. He is the last in the family to go through the Carver program, and he’s making sure the legacy continues strong.

Since his freshman year, Nick has been a committed member of YDP, and he’s actively participated in the 2024 and 2025 College Tours — preparing for his future both on and off the field.

We’re proud to celebrate Nick Sainthyle not just as an athlete, but as a well-rounded, dedicated young leader in our community. Keep making us proud!

Carver Honored at AIMSE Summer Soiree, Building a Lasting Partnership

L-R: Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, AIMSE members Obie L. McKenzie and Virginia Pokora. Mr. McKenzie is a highly respected financial services executive and former President of AIMSE, known for his senior leadership roles at BlackRock, Merrill Lynch, and UBS, and for his service on various boards and philanthropic foundations.

On Wednesday, September 17, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin was honored to speak at the Association of Investment Management Sales Executives (AIMSE) Summer Soiree, held at the beautiful Shore & Country Club in Norwalk.

AIMSE is the only professional organization dedicated to serving the needs of investment management, sales, and marketing professionals. This year’s gathering was made even more meaningful as Carver was selected as the charitable beneficiary, thanks to the leadership of Larry and Virginia Pokora, AIMSE members and longtime Carver friends. Their advocacy resulted in the Soiree raising $10,000 to support Carver programs.

In her remarks, Novelette drew a powerful connection between the financial sector and Carver’s mission:

“Your industry manages more than a trillion dollars in assets. At Carver, we are managing something just as valuable—human potential.”

This spirit of shared purpose was reflected in an invitation to AIMSE members to engage with Carver in ways that go beyond financial support—by mentoring students, introducing them to career paths, opening doors to corporate connections, and joining Carver’s signature community events such as the May gala and June golf outing.

Carver is deeply grateful to AIMSE, the Pokoras, and all who attended for their generosity and vision. We look forward to continuing this partnership and exploring new ways to connect AIMSE’s professional expertise with Carver’s work of helping young people thrive.

Virginia and Larry Pokora standing with Novelette Peterkin

South Norwalk Elementary: A Ribbon-Cutting Celebration Decades in the Making

South Norwalk celebrated a homecoming decades in the making as local and state leaders, families, and educators gathered on September 14, 2025, to officially open the brand-new South Norwalk Elementary School. For the first time in more than 40 years, South Norwalk children will walk to a school in their own neighborhood—a milestone that represents opportunity, equity, and community pride.

A Community’s Dream Realized

The ribbon-cutting ceremony brought together Mayor Harry Rilling, Superintendent Dr. Alexandra Estrella, State Senator Bob Duff, members of the Norwalk Common Council, state commissioners, and countless community advocates who made this dream a reality.

Norwalk Common Council Member Darlene Young captured the spirit of the day: “The only way you start a community is with a school. Start with the young people.” Principal Randall Austin, a South Norwalk native, called the opening a “full circle moment” in his life. “We are a village,” he said, urging the community to continue building on this sense of unity.

Five student ambassadors joined Principal Austin, Assistant Principal Francheska Rodriguez, and distinguished guests in cutting the ribbon, a symbolic moment marking not just the completion of a building, but the restoration of a neighborhood’s heart.

Carver’s Longstanding Role in South Norwalk

Carver has stood alongside South Norwalk families throughout this journey. Long before and while the new school was being constructed, Carver provided before- and after-school and summer programming at Concord Magnet School, ensuring continuity of enrichment and academic support. Many of those students now fill the classrooms and hallways of South Norwalk Elementary, where Carver continues to operate After the Bell programs designed to help every child thrive.

Carver knows this school is more than brick and mortar—it is a hub for opportunity, belonging, and family connection. From homework help and literacy supports to hands-on STEAM enrichment and wellness programs, Carver is proud to be part of the vibrant new chapter unfolding in South Norwalk.

State Leadership that Makes Dreams Possible

The $78 million school was made possible thanks to state funding that covered 60% of the cost, relieving Norwalk taxpayers of the full burden. Senator Bob Duff, a lifelong Carver advocate, played a pivotal role in securing this investment. His commitment to educational equity extends far beyond South Norwalk Elementary. Senator Duff is also a key force behind the major state funding driving Carver Community Center’s current renovation project—another transformational investment that will serve generations of children and families.

Looking Ahead

As Mayor Rilling reflected, watching children walk hand-in-hand with their parents to the first day of school was a moving reminder of why this matters. Superintendent Estrella called the building an investment not only in South Norwalk but in the future of the city as a whole.

For Carver, the opening of South Norwalk Elementary is both a celebration and a continuation of our mission. We are honored to support this neighborhood school with the same dedication that has guided us for decades—ensuring that every child, in every community, has the chance to succeed.