As families across our communities enjoy the final day of the Independence Day weekend, The Carver is preparing for one of the most exciting moments of the year: the start of Carver Summer 2026.

Tomorrow morning, classrooms, camp spaces, gymnasiums, and playgrounds across Norwalk and Bridgeport will come alive as more than 1,000 children and teens begin a summer filled with learning, exploration, friendship, and fun.

For many students, summer means new adventures. Some will be preparing for their first day of kindergarten through Carver's Kick-Off to Kindergarten program. Others will be making the important transition to middle school or high school. Hundreds more will participate in enrichment camps, leadership programs, sports activities, field trips, and hands-on learning experiences designed to help them continue growing long after the school year ends.

This year also marks an exciting change as many of our summer programs move to the beautiful new Dr. Ruby Shaw Elementary School in South Norwalk while renovations continue at the Carver Community Center. The new school will provide an outstanding setting for young people to learn, create, play, and build lasting memories.

Summer learning has always been about more than academics. It is about confidence, curiosity, friendships, leadership, and helping young people discover new possibilities for themselves and their futures. Every Carver summer program is designed to support the whole child through engaging experiences that promote academic growth, social-emotional development, physical wellness, and personal achievement.

As we wrap up a holiday weekend that celebrates freedom, opportunity, and community, we are reminded of the importance of creating opportunities for every child to thrive. We are grateful to our families, staff, teachers, community partners, and supporters whose commitment makes these programs possible year after year.

Tomorrow, a new summer begins.

We can't wait to welcome our students.