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A New Year Begins: Norwalk Students Return to School Amidst Exciting Changes

The anticipation has been building, the backpacks have been packed, and the alarm clocks have been set – it's that time of year again when students across Norwalk are returning to the classrooms for another academic journey. As the school bells ring out this week, the hallways of Norwalk Public Schools will once again come alive with the hustle and bustle of eager students ready to embark on a year of learning, growth, and new experiences.

With the dawn of this academic year, some students are being welcomed back into familiar spaces that have been recently transformed, while others are stepping into brand-new schools that have just been completed. The excitement is palpable, not only because of the fresh start that each new school year brings but also due to the changes and improvements that await both students and staff.

This week marks the beginning of classes for an estimated 11,317 students across Norwalk's 22 schools. This week is especially notable for many of these students as they step into spaces that have undergone remarkable changes. One of the most eagerly awaited projects, the new Cranbury Elementary School, is a testament to Norwalk's commitment to providing top-notch educational facilities. With its construction now complete, the students of Cranbury Elementary School will enjoy a modern and vibrant learning environment that will undoubtedly enhance their educational experience.

But it's not just the physical spaces that are transforming. Norwalk Public Schools welcomed 107 new staff members, including 68 fresh faces in the teaching profession. These educators bring enthusiasm, innovation, and a passion for helping students reach their full potential. Their presence underscores the school district's dedication to providing quality education and support to every student who walks through the doors.

Change is also evident in the leadership positions of some schools. Nathan Hale Middle School welcomes a new principal and assistant principal, while Roton Middle School, Brookside Elementary School, and Rowayton Elementary School welcome new assistant principals. This changing of the guard at the administrative level promises to bring fresh perspectives and ideas to these institutions, ensuring a dynamic and progressive learning environment.

While the new school year buzzes with excitement, it's worth noting that the future holds even more promise. The proposed South Norwalk School is progressing steadily among the ongoing projects, with construction documents now in development. This upcoming addition to the educational landscape is a testament to Norwalk's commitment to providing excellent student opportunities.

As backpacks are slung over shoulders and lockers are organized, returning to school is not just a return to routine but to growth, discovery, and achievement. The opening of this academic year in Norwalk demonstrates the power of communities coming together to invest in the future, create spaces where young minds can flourish, and empower educators to shape the leaders of tomorrow. As the school doors swing open once again, the possibilities are endless, and the excitement is contagious. Here's to a successful and transformative school year ahead!

Reeling in Adventures: Carver's Summer Campers Discover the Joys of Fishing on Long Island Sound

The sun-drenched days of summer bring a world of exploration and discovery for young hearts eager to embrace the great outdoors. At Carver, we believe in providing our summer campers with enriching experiences that create lasting memories and foster a deep appreciation for nature's wonders. Our recent fishing adventure on the picturesque Long Island Sound, made possible by the Pelagic Beast Fishing Charters, is a prime example of the magical moments our girls, aged 10 to 13, have enjoyed.

A Fishing Expedition to Remember

Based out of Norwalk, the Pelagic Beast Fishing Charters have transformed how our young students perceive and interact with the natural world. With their tried-and-tested fishing techniques and passion for sharing their knowledge, the Pelagic Beast crew has opened up a world of possibilities for our eager campers.

The vessel, a 32-ft Downeast-style boat, boasts both comfort and safety, ensuring our girls could fully immerse themselves in the experience without any worries. Cruising at a brisk 20 knots, the Pelagic Beast maximized fishing time, providing our campers with more opportunities to cast their lines and create stories of their own. With a capacity to accommodate six anglers and a crew of three, the boat's state-of-the-art gear and cutting-edge electronics made locating fish a thrilling adventure in itself.

Expertise and Equipment for Unforgettable Moments

Equipped with high-quality fishing gear, including rods by Seeker and St. Croix, reels by Avet, and hooks by Owner Hooks, the Pelagic Beast Charters ensured each camper had the tools they needed for success. The diverse range of fishing techniques, from trolling and bottom fishing to jigging and popping with lures, ensured every camper could find a method that resonated with them.

A Tapestry of Marine Life in Long Island Sound

Connecticut's Long Island Sound is a treasure trove of marine biodiversity, offering over 100 species of fish that dance beneath the glistening surface. From the thrill of reeling in striped bass and bluefish to the delight of encountering summer flounder, scup, hickory shad, black sea bass, and tautog, our campers were treated to a spectacular showcase of aquatic life.

At Carver, we believe these experiences are not just summer escapades but opportunities for growth and learning. Through the art of fishing, our girls learned patience, teamwork, and a deep sense of respect for the environment they were exploring.

Carver: Nurturing Tomorrow's Adventurers

As a community pillar, Carver is committed to shaping young minds and nurturing their dreams. Our summer campers' fishing expedition with the Pelagic Beast Fishing Charters embodies our mission of providing holistic, enriching experiences that build character and create treasured memories. Watching our girls light up with joy as they reeled in their catches reaffirmed the power of nature to inspire, educate, and bring smiles to young faces.

So, the next time you wonder what's biting in Long Island Sound, ask our summer students. Their stories will be filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the magical thrill of reeling in adventure on the open water. Carver and partners like Pelagic Beast Fishing Charters are here to empower the next generation of explorers, one cast at a time.

Carver is ready for the new school year!

We define readiness as our overall willingness and capacity within our organization and our staff that enables change to occur successfully. More specifically for programs, this means:

  1. Having strong operations and procedures. This includes building a positive culture and climate, creating processes for collaborative decision-making, ensuring alignment with existing policies and practices, and having the capacity and plans for implementation.

  2. Ensuring staff well-being. Our programs help staff develop self-efficacy and a growth mindset, as well as provide staff with the necessary knowledge and skills to help facilitate change.

  3. Keeping stakeholders, including our young people and their families, engaged and informed. Carver ensures they have input into decisions and understand how these decisions will affect them.

  4. Accessing specific resources, materials, and training that are unique to the particular and intentional change programs are making and/or new ideas they are introducing.

U.S. Department of Education's commitment to Raise the Bar & Lead the World

U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona laid out his vision for the Department's direction in 2023 to promote academic excellence, improve learning conditions, and prepare our students for a world where global engagement is critical to our nation’s standing. In his address, Secretary Cardona remarked that “Raise the Bar: Lead the World” is not a list of new priorities but a call to strengthen our will to transform education for the better, building on approaches that we know work in education.

Raise the Bar incorporates three pillars:

  • Achieve Academic Excellence through efforts to accelerate learning for every student and deliver a comprehensive and rigorous education for every student;

  • Boldly Improve Learning Conditions through efforts to eliminate the educator shortage for every school and invest in every student’s mental health and well-being; and

  • Create Pathways for Global Engagement through efforts to ensure every student has a pathway to college and career and provide every student a pathway to multilingualism.

Carver Students Soar to New Heights at Sky Zone: A Memorable Outing for Rising 6th Graders in the Summer Transition Program

Carver students attending the Summer Transition Programs at Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy and West Rocks Middle School recently embarked on an exhilarating outing to Sky Zone, the world's largest operator of trampoline and active entertainment parks. As they hit the runway and bid farewell to gravity, they discovered new excitement and fun while preparing for the exciting journey that awaits them in the coming school year.

Sky Zone, known for maximizing Next Level Fun, provided the perfect environment for Carver students to unleash their energy and creativity. Amidst the climbing, flips, jumps, and laughter, the young learners found themselves in a space that celebrated movement, self-expression, and individuality. The experience wasn't just a thrilling adventure and essential in fostering physical and cognitive development.

The Summer Transition Program at Carver is dedicated to ensuring a smooth transition for rising 6th graders, helping them acclimate to their new schools, teachers, and peers before the academic year starts. Spearheaded by Michael Richards, a passionate Social Studies Teacher at West Rocks Middle School, and Joe Giandurco, an enthusiastic educator at Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, the Carver Lead Program Coordinators worked tirelessly to create enriching experiences for the students throughout the year.

As the day at Sky Zone unfolded, it became evident that this outing offered much more than a mere adventure. The thrill of bouncing off trampolines and conquering gravity not only left the students exhilarated but also had a positive impact on their cognitive abilities. Studies have shown that physical activity plays a crucial role in enhancing brain function and promoting overall well-being.

The Summer Transition Program at Carver recognizes the value of holistic development and understands that fostering a strong mind-body connection is vital for a successful academic journey. Sky Zone was an ideal setting, aligning perfectly with Carver's commitment to empowering young minds and bodies.

With every jump, flip, and twist, the rising 6th graders solidified their friendships and built confidence in themselves and each other. As they experienced the joy of movement, they were unknowingly preparing themselves for the exciting challenges and opportunities ahead in the new school year.

Carver extends its heartfelt gratitude to Michael Richards and Joe Giandurco for their dedication to the program, ensuring that Carver students receive the support and guidance they need to thrive in their educational journey. Through the Summer Transition Program, these educators go above and beyond to create memorable experiences that leave a lasting impact on the lives of their students.

The outing to Sky Zone became a memorable milestone for Carver students, marking the beginning of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. By flying high and embracing the spirit of play and discovery, these rising 6th graders are well on their way to navigating the halls of Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy and West Rocks Middle School with confidence, enthusiasm, and a strong sense of community.

Carver Summer Extravaganza: Fun, Learning, and Adventure!

Hello, sunshine-loving friends! Summer is here, and Carver is making it an unforgettable season of joy, growth, and exploration. We're thrilled to share our fantastic lineup of summer programs that will leave our students with memories to cherish and stories to share. So, get your sunglasses on, and let's dive into the exciting world of Carver this summer!

Enrichment Camps Galore: This year, Carver is operating not one, not two, but THREE Enrichment Camps in different locations. Whether at the Carver Community Center, the new SONO Elementary School, or our After the Bell Enrichment Camp, you'll find incredible activities to spark your curiosity and ignite your passion.

Smooth Transitions: Transitioning to a new grade can be exciting and nerve-wracking. That's why Carver is here to make it a breeze with our seven Summer Transition Programs. Rising 6th graders from Nathan Hale, Ponus, Roton, and West Rocks Middle Schools, as well as rising 9th graders from Brien McMahon and Norwalk High Schools and P-TECH Norwalk, can join us for a summer filled with camaraderie, skill-building, and confidence-boosting adventures.

After the Bell Delight: We believe the fun shouldn't stop when the sun goes down. That's why Carver operates the After the Summer Bell program in the afternoons, exclusively for NPS students entering grades 1 through 4 attending the NPS Summer Academy. Prepare for a fantastic blend of learning and play to keep your summer spirits soaring!

Adventures at Side by Side: Carver's summer program at Side by Side Charter School is a hub of excitement. Dive into a world of discovery, creativity, and friendship as you embark on captivating activities that will leave you wanting more. Side by Side is the place to be this summer!

Wilderness Wonder at The Ecology School: Last year, Carver launched its sleepaway camp program at The Ecology School in Maine for rising 6th graders. Guess what? We're back again this summer for another round of incredible adventures! Prepare to explore the enchanting woods, dive into refreshing waters, and roam the picturesque fields of The Ecology School at the breathtaking River Bend Farm. It's a historic 105-acre farm nestled along a scenic bend in the Saco River, just a short distance from the beautiful Maine coast.

So, whether you're into science, arts, or sports or want to make new friends and have a blast, Carver has something incredible waiting for you this summer. It's time to embrace the sunshine, spread your wings, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Don't miss the Carver Summer Extravaganza—it will be a blast!

Carver Summer Interns Gain a Career Jumpstart at Norwalk Hospital

From left to right: Damaly Mendez, Brien McMahon ‘23 and Quinnipiac University ‘27; Ashley Fernandez, McMahon ‘23 and Sacred Heart University ‘27; Cynthia Sainrilus, McMahon ‘24; and Madison Watts, Norwalk High ‘24.

While other rising seniors and rising college freshman might spend their summer mornings catching up on sleep, Damaly Mendez, Ashley Fernandez, Cynthia Sainrilus, and Madison Watts arrive at Norwalk Hospital at 8 a.m., Monday through Friday. They don their badges and head straight to work: shadowing nurses and doctors at orientation, processing files, providing clerical support in the E.R., and lending a hand to the Human Resources department. These Carver students are dually excited and serious, dedicated to learning as much as they can during their month at one of the top 100 hospitals in the United States.

“It’s an incredible experience,” Damaly says. “I’ll be studying Nursing at Quinnipiac, and this opportunity to intern in the H.R. department gives me a whole new understanding of hospital administration.” “It’s really exciting too,” Cynthia says. “Even though my day-to-day is paperwork, I get to work in the Emergency Room. While I’m filing, there are babies being born just around the corner—and you know when it happens, because they’ll play a lullaby over the intercom.”

“I’ve been processing files for every nurse and patient care tech, sorting out their certifications like their VLS and ACLS,” says Ashley. “But my favorite thing is getting to experience the culture that all the nurses have with each other. They know each other really well; they’re a family.”

“It’s really cool to see how they maneuver through the hospital,” Madison adds. “There’s so much going on all the time. It’s so communicative. Today I learned about handheld audits: if someone does something incorrectly, it goes into the database with a survey. It lets the hospital as a whole know who’s on track and who’s having trouble. And then they look out for each other. It’s corrective as it needs to be, but it’s so collaborative and supportive.”

When asked about how this internships compares to their previous work experiences, our Carver kids emphasized how involved they get to be. “It’s really different. In past work experiences, it felt like everyone was in their own world. Here everyone is a close-knit team. And they involve us in work that matters.” Beyond providing clerical support, Carver interns also shadow nurses and doctors as they go about their day. As a Code Blue comes over the intercom, our students’ ears pricked up: “Blue is an adult medical emergency. Likely respiratory or cardiac arrest.”

“I think people would expect a pre-college internship to be boring. But being here has been really fun. It motivates me to get up and go in the mornings,” Ashley says. “This gives me something to feel really proud of this summer,” Madison says. “Our work is appreciated. It feels good to help out, even when it’s something comparatively minor.”

When asked about what they plan to take away with them from the internship, our students said they appreciated the relationship building. “Not only did we get hands-on experience, but we were able to connect with nurses and doctors. Getting to meet role models in the industry has been irreplaceable.”

We are so proud of our students for bringing so much passion and verve to their summer internship. When we asked what they liked best about Carver programs, this is what they had to say:

"It means a lot that the Carver supports us. It’s a consistent ‘You can do this!’ They want us to be great. If I’m ever freaking out, I have Miss Mitchell over there. The Carver is a really good place to be.” - Ashley Fernandez

“Carver’s very inclusive. They don’t look at you differently, no matter who you are, what you look like, where you come from. They come to everyone with open arms. Anything you need, the people at Carver are always there to help you. You find that extra mother figure and extra father figure.” - Madison Watts

“They give us so many opportunities. Internships, college tours, scholarships… and those can be so hard to find on your own.” - Damaly Mendez

We at the Carver are so privileged to build lifetime achievers like Damaly, Ashley, Cynthia, and Madison. We are also so grateful to those at Nuvance Health and our Earn and Learn sponsors for making this summer internship happen. If you would like to support The Carver by bringing like opportunities to our students, please contact Director of Philanthropy, Nikki LaFaye, at nikki@the-carver.org

Left to Right: Madison Watts, Cynthia Sainrilus, Ashley Fernandez, Damaly Mendez.

About Our Students: Damaly Mendez will be a Nursing Major at Quinnipiac University this coming fall. Ashley Fernandez will be pursuing Health Science at Sacred Heart University. Cynthia Sainrilus will be entering her senior year at Brien McMahon and she dreams of becoming an optometrist. Madison is also a rising high school senior and plans to ultimately become a travel nurse.