“Enrollment is through the roof!” according to Tricia Massucco, Carver’s Director of Elementary School Based Programs, when asked about the before- and after-school programs she oversees. And we couldn’t be happier.
This school year is already remarkably different from last year. Though masks and social distancing are still required inside Norwalk’s public schools, K-12 students are once again learning in-person, surrounded by their peers and supportive educators. There’s hope for a return to some level of pre-pandemic normalcy - for a school year without the severe disruptions that left students isolated and struggling to keep up with their education.
No one can be certain of what to expect this year. The Carver Foundation of Norwalk, however, is sure of one thing: that our 2,000+ K-12 students will be supported, encouraged, and empowered to strengthen their academic, social, emotional, and physical well-being through the expanded learning opportunities Carver provides.
An extensive network of programs and resources vital to Norwalk
Carver’s program sites. Our reach has expanded over the years, from a single community center to all Norwalk Public Schools.
We recently joined forces with Fox Run Elementary School and Columbus Magnet School to implement after-school programming. With these additions to our program sites, Carver is operating in every school building in the Norwalk Public Schools district, as well as Side by Side Charter School in Norwalk and Classical Studies Magnet Academy in Bridgeport. The Carver Community Center houses its own after-school program, where K-8 students learn and play in a nurturing community environment.
These after-school programs combine:
Academic and social-emotional learning
A variety of enrichments
High school students are provided with resources for college and career readiness to enable a productive transition into young adulthood. Certified teachers and paraprofessionals manage Carver’s programs in their respective schools.
But Carver is more than just an after-school provider. We are an advocate for equity in education, working to close opportunity gaps for children. We remove barriers to participation in our programs to ensure that students of all backgrounds benefit from an enhanced, personalized learning environment.
Looking toward the future
As enrollment continues to climb for Carver’s many programs, we are constantly brainstorming new ways of enhancing and expanding them. New ways to help our students. And ways to reach new kids.
Though it’s unknown what this new school year has in store for students, parents, educators, and everyone in between, Carver is looking ahead with optimism and determination.