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.