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.