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Building Bright Beginnings: Carver Leaders Celebrate Future Students at Kick-Off to Kindergarten

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin with a Kick-Off to Kindergarten student in Bridgeport

There may be no more exciting milestone than a child's first step into school. For children with little or no prior preschool or classroom experience, that first step can also be one of the biggest. That's why The Carver is proud to partner with Bridgeport Public Schools each summer to offer Kick-Off to Kindergarten (KOK), a free early-intervention bridge program that helps Bridgeport's youngest learners begin their educational journey with confidence.

Funded in part by the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, Kick-Off to Kindergarten is designed specifically for incoming kindergarten students who would benefit from additional preparation before the school year begins. This July, the program welcomed students at five Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS): Cesar A. Batalla School, Geraldine W. Claytor Magnet Academy, Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School, Jettie S. Tisdale School, and Waltersville School.

Recently, Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin, Chief Program Officer Brian Allert, and Manager of Middle and High School Programs Mary Martini visited several program sites to see the children in action. They were joined by BPS leaders Lindsay Davis, Director of Early Childhood; Stephanie Volturno; and Patti Sorrentino-Galello.

As they toured classrooms, they watched students eagerly participate in literacy and project-based activities, collaborate with classmates, explore hands-on learning experiences, and proudly demonstrate the confidence they had already gained in just a few short weeks. The smiles, curiosity, and growing independence captured in the photo gallery below tell the story better than words ever could.

Over four weeks, children attend daily sessions led by certified Bridgeport Public Schools teachers and credentialed early childhood paraprofessionals. Small class sizes allow educators to provide individualized attention while introducing students to the routines, expectations, and joys of a classroom environment. Breakfast and lunch are provided each day, ensuring students are ready to learn from the moment they arrive.

Carver Chief Program Officer Brian Allert appreciates the project-based learning materials offered to students attending the Kick-Off to Kindergarten summer program at six sites across six Bridgeport Public Schools.

The curriculum is thoughtfully designed to build both academic readiness and social-emotional confidence. Students explore early literacy through stories, phonics, vocabulary, and language-rich activities while strengthening early math skills through counting and hands-on learning. Just as importantly, they practice essential kindergarten behaviors—sharing, taking turns, following directions, building friendships, and developing the self-regulation skills that help children thrive in school.

The impact of Kick-Off to Kindergarten is measurable. Using the nationally recognized Brigance Screen III assessment, Bridgeport Public Schools has consistently documented significant growth during the four-week program, with students averaging more than 14 points of improvement before kindergarten even begins. Those gains represent children entering school more confident, more prepared, and better equipped to succeed from their very first day.

Carver program manager, Mary Martini, standing in the background (Left) speaking with a Kick-Off to Kindergarten staff member

Since launching its partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools in 2018, beginning with the Classical Studies Magnet Academy Extended Day Program, The Carver has continued expanding opportunities for Bridgeport students and families. Kick-Off to Kindergarten reflects that long-term commitment by helping ensure that children begin school on a strong foundation, one that can influence their academic success for years to come.

The Carver extends its heartfelt appreciation to Bridgeport Public Schools, the dedicated teachers and paraprofessionals, participating families, and especially the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, whose continued investment helps make this important work possible. Together, we are proving that when children receive the right support before kindergarten begins, they don't just start school—they start strong.

Young Philanthropists Invest in Carver Students’ College Dreams

Fairfield County’s Community Foundation recently celebrated the completion of its two-year Youth Philanthropy Council program—and the remarkable young people who are already helping to shape a more equitable Fairfield County.

See the photos of their celebration event here!

The Council brought together emerging leaders ages 16 to 24 for hands-on experience in volunteering, fundraising, grant writing, proposal review, and grantmaking. Guided by Community Foundation staff and mentors, members selected educational disparities as their funding priority and awarded $8,600 in grants to 14 youth-serving nonprofits across Fairfield County, including The Carver.

Carver’s grant will support the Carver Spring College Tour Student Leadership Fundraising Initiative, which combines college access with hands-on leadership and workforce development. Carver high school students will organize and operate a concession stand during Fairfield County Basketball League games at the Carver Community Center. Proceeds will help offset the cost of Carver’s Spring 2027 College Tour.

For more than 50 years, the Spring College Tour has introduced Carver students—many of whom will be the first in their families to attend college—to colleges and universities across several states, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Students tour campuses, meet admissions representatives, connect with Carver alumni, and experience college life firsthand.

Through the concession initiative, approximately 20 to 30 students will also help manage inventory, serve customers, promote the fundraiser, and oversee day-to-day operations. Along the way, they will strengthen their communication, teamwork, budgeting, problem-solving, and customer-service skills while taking an active role in supporting their own educational aspirations.

The award is especially meaningful because it represents young people investing in other young people. Youth Philanthropy Council members approached their decisions thoughtfully, considering community impact, equity, educational opportunity, and long-term sustainability.

As FCCF President and CEO Mendi Blue Paca observed at the Council’s culminating Night of Music and Impact, young people are not merely preparing to become leaders; they are already leading. The Council’s support of Carver and 13 fellow nonprofits demonstrates what becomes possible when youth are trusted with a genuine voice, meaningful responsibility, and the resources to turn their values into community impact.

The Carver is deeply grateful to the Youth Philanthropy Council and Fairfield County’s Community Foundation for believing in our students and supporting their journey toward college, leadership, and lifelong success.

Creativity, Collaboration, and Chemistry Energize Week Three at West Rocks

Week Three of Carver’s Summer Transition Program at West Rocks Middle School gave rising sixth graders new ways to strategize, create, collaborate, and explore, all while continuing to build friendships and become comfortable in their future school community.

Led by longtime Carver educator Michael Richards, the Summer Transition Program helps rising sixth graders enter West Rocks with greater confidence, stronger peer relationships, and an eagerness to embrace new academic challenges.

Rolling Video Games of New England brought the excitement of mobile laser tag directly to West Rocks. With tactical equipment and pop-up barriers transforming the grounds into a lively playing field, students worked in teams, planned their moves, and enjoyed some friendly competition. The fast-paced experience encouraged communication and cooperation while giving everyone an energetic way to connect with new classmates.

When Tuesday brought a torrential rainstorm, the students and staff demonstrated the adaptability that is central to a successful summer program. West Rocks Digital Literacy Coach Sara Golding moved the fun indoors and led students in a colorful tie-dye activity. Each student experimented with patterns and color combinations to create a unique design, and the storm became an opportunity for creativity rather than an interruption.

On Thursday, the Connecticut Invention Convention challenged students to think like inventors. Working in pairs, students received two seemingly unrelated items—such as an umbrella and a pocket, a backpack and a pillow, or sneakers and a towel—and were asked to combine them into an original invention. Each team had to identify a potential purpose, exchange ideas, develop a plan, and create a design.

The activity introduced students to the imaginative, real-world problem-solving at the heart of the Connecticut Invention Convention. Rather than following instructions to assemble a predetermined project, students had to generate their own ideas and turn them into something new. Along the way, they practiced the critical thinking, communication, and collaboration skills that will serve them well throughout middle school.

Mad Science added even more STEM discovery to the week. Led by student favorite Ms. Galaxy, the session explored chemical reactions, including the differences between endothermic reactions, which absorb heat, and exothermic reactions, which release it. Through engaging demonstrations and hands-on learning, students encountered scientific concepts in a memorable and accessible way. Every student also left with a gift bag courtesy of Mad Science.

From navigating a laser tag course and responding creatively to a sudden storm to inventing new products and investigating chemical reactions, Week Three offered an exciting balance of recreation, artistic expression, teamwork, and STEM learning. Most importantly, every experience helped students strengthen relationships, build confidence, and feel increasingly at home at West Rocks before their first day of sixth grade.

Stepping into Sixth Grade with Trust and Teamwork

Rising sixth graders in Carver’s Summer Transition Program for Nathan Hale Middle School are preparing for the academic expectations and new experiences of middle school while building something equally important: trust in one another.

During a recent activity on the school’s playing fields, students encountered an obstacle course created from an everyday material—their own shoes. One student was blindfolded while her peers guided her through the course using only their voices. Unable to see the path ahead, she had to listen carefully, interpret each direction, and trust her classmates to lead her safely around every obstacle.

The blindfold challenge was lively and fun, but it also carried important lessons. The student navigating the course (everyone had a chance to try their trust) practiced listening, patience, courage, and self-management. Her classmates had to communicate clearly, consider the situation from another person’s perspective, and work together toward a shared goal. Success depended not on speed or individual ability, but on cooperation.

These are valuable skills for students entering Nathan Hale, a school known for bringing learning to life through its Immersive Arts Integration program. The school is also a candidate for the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program, a framework that connects classroom learning with the real world while cultivating critical thinking, communication, creativity, and self-management.

Designed for students ages 11 to 16, the IB Middle Years Program encompasses eight subject areas: language and literature, language acquisition, individuals and societies, sciences, mathematics, arts, physical and health education, and design. Its emphasis on inquiry, reflection, and making connections across disciplines complements Nathan Hale’s immersive approach to learning.

The trust walk offered a simple but memorable example of those principles in action. Students communicated, adjusted their strategies, solved problems in real time, and took responsibility for one another’s success.

Carver’s Summer Transition Program in each of Norwalk’s four public middle schools helps rising sixth graders become familiar with the routines, relationships, and expectations of middle school before the academic year begins. Along the way, students form new friendships and develop the confidence to approach unfamiliar challenges.

For Nathan Hale’s newest students, the trust walk was more than a trip through an obstacle course. It was a reminder that they do not have to navigate the journey into middle school alone.

Unlocking Sixth Grade: Roton Students Build Confidence for Middle School

The transition from elementary school to middle school is a major milestone, and rising sixth graders at Roton Middle School are spending part of their summer making sure they are ready.

Through Carver’s Summer Transition Program, students are becoming acquainted with their new school before the first bell rings this fall. They are learning their way around the building, exploring classrooms and common spaces, and becoming more comfortable with the routines and responsibilities that come with middle school.

One especially important lesson has been learning how to use their newly assigned lockers. What may seem simple to an experienced middle schooler—remembering a combination, turning the dial in the correct sequence, and getting to class on time—can initially feel daunting to a rising sixth grader. With time to practice and help from instructors and classmates, students are replacing that uncertainty with confidence.

Students are also strengthening their academic and collaborative skills through math games and group problem-solving activities. Working together, they are testing ideas, comparing strategies, explaining their reasoning, and discovering that challenging problems become more manageable when everyone contributes. These activities reinforce essential math skills while helping students develop the communication, persistence, and teamwork they will need throughout middle school.

The five-week program offers much more than preparation for the school day. Roton students are enjoying science projects, educational visitors, creative theme days, recreational activities, and special events. The summer calendar includes school tours, interactive math activities, Camp Science projects, live animals, locker practice, tie-dye and tropical celebrations, ropes courses, and other opportunities to learn, explore, and form new friendships.

Carver operates Summer Transition Programs for rising sixth graders entering each of Norwalk’s four middle schools: Nathan Hale, Ponus Ridge, Roton, and West Rocks. The programs run Monday, July 6, through Friday, August 7, from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

By the end of the summer, Roton’s newest students will arrive for sixth grade already knowing more than how to find their classrooms and open their lockers. They will enter with familiar faces, stronger friendships, sharper skills, and the reassuring knowledge that they are ready for what comes next.

West Rocks Rising Sixth Graders Put Science to the Test

The week’s largest engineering challenge unfolded over several days. Using only plastic wrap, straws, tissue, paper towels, and tape, students designed devices to protect eggs dropped from the roof of West Rocks.

Week 2 of Carver’s Summer Transition Program at West Rocks Middle School gave rising sixth graders exciting opportunities to predict, experiment, design, and discover, all while building the confidence, relationships, and problem-solving skills that will help them succeed in middle school.

Students began by investigating what happens when M&M’s are placed in water. Before conducting the experiment, they predicted how the colors would react and what would happen to each candy’s familiar “m.” They then carefully observed, recorded, and compared their results. A similar experiment with Skittles allowed students to test new predictions and explore how different candy coatings react to water.

The week’s largest engineering challenge unfolded over several days. Using only plastic wrap, straws, tissue, paper towels, and tape, students designed devices to protect eggs dropped from the roof of West Rocks. The challenge required creativity, collaboration, and persistence as students considered how to cushion their eggs, distribute the impact force, and improve their designs.

Visits from Earthplace and Mad Science of Connecticut brought two complementary forms of STEM enrichment to the program.

Earthplace, a nonprofit environmental education and conservation center in Westport, uses wildlife and nature-based learning to help young people understand ecology, biodiversity, and environmental stewardship. Its educators introduced students to an owl, a bat, a pigeon, and a bunny. Through these close encounters, students learned how animals survive, how their physical and behavioral adaptations help them thrive, and how Earthplace cares for wildlife that has been injured.

The experience encouraged careful observation, curiosity, and empathy while helping students understand the relationships between animals and their environments. Earthplace has been a memorable part of Carver’s previous summer programming at West Rocks, connecting classroom science to the natural world.

Mad Science approached STEM from a different but equally engaging direction. Its high-energy, lab-style presentation made scientific concepts visible through hands-on experiments involving chemical reactions. Students watched materials transform, considered why the reactions occurred, and participated in activities that made abstract principles exciting and accessible. Mad Science programs use dramatic demonstrations and playful experimentation to introduce young learners to chemistry, physics, engineering, technology, and other STEM fields.

Together, Earthplace and Mad Science gave students two distinct ways to experience science: one grounded in wildlife and the environment, and the other in experimentation and chemical discovery. Their visits complemented the week’s student-led investigations and engineering challenge, reinforcing that science begins with curiosity, careful observation, and a willingness to test ideas.

Led by longtime Carver educator Michael Richards, the Summer Transition Program helps rising sixth graders enter West Rocks with greater confidence, stronger peer relationships, and an eagerness to embrace new academic challenges. Week 2 showed students that learning is especially powerful when they can ask questions, make predictions, learn from unexpected outcomes—and try again.

Literacy, STEAM, and Discovery: Carver and Classical Studies Magnet Academy Celebrate Another Year of Student Success

The students at Classical Studies Magnet Academy (CSMA)

For another successful year, The Carver was proud to partner with Classical Studies Magnet Academy (CSMA) in Bridgeport to provide extended-day learning opportunities that helped students grow academically, creatively, and socially. Thanks to the continued support of the Bridgeport Board of Education and the extraordinary generosity of the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, hundreds of students benefited from a rich after-school experience that extended learning well beyond the traditional school day.

Located on Bridgeport's West Side, Classical Studies Magnet Academy is a unique Pre-K through 8th-grade public school serving more than 400 students. Housed in the oldest school building still in use by the district—a historic 123-year-old structure—CSMA combines classical literature, art, music, project-based learning, and the Paideia instructional approach to create a distinctive educational experience for its students.

Throughout the 2025-2026 school year, Carver's extended-day program complemented that mission by providing academic support, STEAM exploration, enrichment opportunities, and family engagement activities designed to help students thrive.

A major focus of the program was literacy. Students participated in grade-level novel studies featuring books such as Cricket in Times Square, The BFG, The Doughnut Fix, and The Epic Fail of Arturo Zamora. Through guided reading, discussion, writing activities, presentations, and creative projects, students strengthened reading comprehension while exploring themes of friendship, perseverance, entrepreneurship, community, and identity.

Academic tutoring also emphasized math fluency and problem-solving. Teachers incorporated games, puzzles, and collaborative activities that helped students build confidence while developing critical thinking skills in a supportive environment.

Beyond academics, students had opportunities to explore a remarkable range of enrichment activities. Coding, robotics, science investigations, art, cartooning, cooking, astronomy, fitness, jewelry-making, origami, board games, meditation, and dance were just some of the options available to students throughout the year. The program encouraged young people to discover new interests, develop talents, and build meaningful connections with their peers.

Students also collaborated across grade levels on hands-on STEAM challenges, working together to design inventions that addressed real-world problems. These projects fostered creativity, teamwork, communication, and innovation while demonstrating that learning can be both rigorous and fun.

Family engagement remained an important part of the program as well. Events such as the school's "Lights, Camera, Literacy" Family Night brought families together to celebrate reading, storytelling, and learning while strengthening the connection between school and home.

The Carver extends its deepest gratitude to the City of Bridgeport for its continued partnership and commitment to providing high-quality opportunities for Bridgeport students. We are especially thankful to the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation, whose steadfast support has helped sustain this work year after year.

The foundation's mission is to improve lives by expanding educational, children's, and cultural opportunities—values that perfectly align with the goals of this partnership. The foundation was established in memory of John and Ethel Kashulon, lifelong Bridgeport residents whose legacy continues to create opportunities for young people throughout the city. Carver is honored to remain one of the organizations entrusted to carry that legacy forward.

Together, with dedicated educators, engaged families, community partners, and generous supporters, we are helping students build the skills, confidence, and curiosity they need to succeed in school and beyond. We look forward to continuing this important work at Classical Studies Magnet Academy for many years to come.

A Ball, A Bridge, A Better Community: Full Court Peace, Hudson Sonesson, and Carver Team Up to Give Back

Carver’s Shannon Singleton-Bates with Hudson Sonesson, a student at St. Luke’s School with the donated basketballs.

For young people, a basketball is more than just a piece of sports equipment. It can be an invitation to play, a reason to gather with friends, a source of confidence, and sometimes the beginning of a lifelong passion. Thanks to a partnership between a generous student, a longtime community advocate, and a valued Carver supporter, dozens of local youth recently received that opportunity.

When Hudson Sonesson, a rising 10th-grade student at St. Luke’s School, wanted to find a meaningful way to give back, he connected with Carver Recreation Coordinator Shannon Singleton-Bates through Mike Evans, founder and CEO of Full Court Peace. Hudson’s idea was simple but powerful: provide new basketballs to children who could benefit from them.

Through his efforts, Hudson secured 20 brand-new basketballs for Carver youth. Shannon distributed many of the basketballs to children participating in Carver programs, while also sharing some with young people she encountered during her travels to Bridgeport and other communities. The result was a gift that extended far beyond a single location, spreading opportunities for play, recreation, and connection across multiple neighborhoods.

The donation is another example of the longstanding relationship between Carver and Full Court Peace, a Connecticut-based nonprofit founded by Mike Evans. For more than a decade, Full Court Peace has used basketball as a tool to bring together young people from different racial, cultural, and socioeconomic backgrounds. The organization supports local communities through court restoration projects, equipment donations, coaching resources, and youth programming designed to strengthen relationships both on and off the court.

Its impact has been remarkable. To date, Full Court Peace has helped restore 251 basketball courts in communities across the United States and around the world, creating safe and welcoming spaces where young people can play, learn, and build friendships.

Carver has been fortunate to benefit from Full Court Peace’s generosity for many years. During the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Mike Evans and members of the Full Court Peace team brought basketballs, chalk, bubbles, pencils, and encouragement to Carver youth at the Carver Community Center. That spirit of giving continues today through partnerships like this one.

We are grateful to Hudson Sonesson for choosing to invest in local youth, to Shannon Singleton-Bates for ensuring the gifts reached children who would benefit most, and to Mike Evans and Full Court Peace for their continued commitment to creating opportunities through basketball.

Sometimes community impact begins with a single ball in a young person’s hands. This summer, that simple gift is helping young people across our region get outside, stay active, and experience the joy of the game.

A Summer of Learning, Friendship, and Opportunity: Hundreds of Children Gather at Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School for Carver Summer 2026

For the first time, two of The Carver’s signature summer camp programs are operating together under one roof at the beautiful new Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School, bringing hundreds of Norwalk children together for a summer filled with learning, friendship, exploration, and fun.

Traditionally, one of these camps has been held at The Carver Community Center and the other at Concord Magnet School. This summer, however, both programs have found a home at Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School, a temporary one for the Carver Enrichment Summer Camp while The Carver Community Center undergoes a major transformation, including extensive renovations and the completion of the new two-story Teen Center connected directly to the gymnasium.

The new location could not be more fitting.

Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School opened to students during the 2025-2026 school year, becoming South Norwalk’s first dedicated neighborhood elementary school in more than 40 years. Built to serve local families and strengthen community connections, the school has quickly become a source of pride for the neighborhood. This summer, its bright classrooms, modern learning spaces, and welcoming campus are providing an ideal environment for children ages 5-13 to learn, grow, and thrive.

Running from July 6 through August 7, both camps offer full-day programming from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with extended-day options available until 5:30 p.m. Designed to support both students and working families, the programs combine academic enrichment, creative exploration, recreation, and social-emotional development in a safe and nurturing setting.

Whether children are entering kindergarten, in middle school, or simply looking for an engaging summer experience, Carver's programs are designed to spark curiosity, build confidence, and keep young minds active throughout the summer months.

Each day is filled with hands-on learning opportunities, collaborative projects, outdoor activities, and enrichment experiences led by experienced educators and community partners. Students participate in STEM activities, literacy and math enrichment, arts programming, team-building exercises, and special presentations from organizations such as the Maritime Aquarium and other local partners.

Just as importantly, summer camp provides opportunities for children to develop friendships, practice leadership skills, and strengthen the habits that contribute to success in school and beyond.

Families consistently tell us they value Carver summer programs because they offer:

  • A safe, nurturing environment

  • Engaging, hands-on learning experiences

  • Opportunities to build lasting friendships

  • Structured days that support working families

  • Exciting field trips and enrichment experiences

  • Meaningful preparation for the upcoming school year

While the location may be different this year, the mission remains the same: ensuring that every child has access to high-quality summer learning opportunities that help them stay connected, continue growing, and return to school ready to succeed.

As construction crews continue their work at The Carver Community Center, the sounds of learning, laughter, and discovery are alive and well at Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School—where hundreds of children are making memories, building skills, and experiencing the very best of summer at The Carver.

Building More Than Towers: Rising 6th Graders Strengthen Skills for Success at West Rocks Middle School

As students prepare for the important transition from elementary school to middle school, Carver's Summer Transition Program at West Rocks Middle School is helping rising 6th graders build confidence, connections, and critical thinking skills—one challenge at a time.

Led by Michael Richards, Director of the Summer Transition Program and a certified teacher at West Rocks Middle School, the program provides rising 6th graders with a supportive environment where they can become familiar with their new school while developing the academic and social-emotional skills needed for success.

In addition to meeting their new peers and getting acquainted with their new school and teachers, Week One introduced students to a series of increasingly complex engineering and problem-solving activities designed to encourage teamwork, creativity, and perseverance.

The challenge began with a simple task: using only paper and tape to build a tower strong enough to support a book. The following day, students were given similar materials along with popsicle sticks and asked to apply what they had learned from their first attempt to improve their designs. As the week progressed, the challenges became more ambitious. Students worked together to construct the tallest possible structures using plastic cups and cardboard tissue rolls before culminating the week with a classic engineering test—building towers from spaghetti and marshmallows.

While some structures stood tall and others collapsed along the way, every challenge provided valuable lessons. Students collaborated with teammates, tested ideas, revised their plans, and learned that failure is often an important step toward success.

More importantly, they demonstrated the very skills that will help them thrive in middle school: communication, resilience, critical thinking, and the confidence to tackle new challenges.

As these future West Rocks students prepare for the school year ahead, they are already building a strong foundation—not just for taller towers, but for a successful transition to middle school and beyond.

We look forward to sharing more highlights from the Summer Transition Program throughout the summer as students continue exploring, learning, and growing together.