Transformative Celebrations: Carver Community's Unique Tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Day

As the nation pauses to honor Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the Carver community embarks on a celebration that transcends the traditional national holiday observance. Far beyond simply acknowledging a day off, Carver's festivities are deeply rooted in the community's commitment to igniting the joy of learning and empowering our predominantly minority students to reimagine themselves as learners, collaborators, and leaders.

Carver, echoing the principles championed by Dr. King, envisions a future where education catalyzes change. The belief that education can transform lives and inspire greatness is at the core of Carver's mission. We strive not only to prepare students academically but to equip them for personal and career success, empowering them to navigate the challenges of their lives and the world they will inherit.

At the heart of Carver's educational philosophy is a dedication to guiding students beyond mastering core academic content. We actively cultivate critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, collaboration, communication, and self-management skills. In doing so, Carver is advancing educational equity and uplifting youth who may be furthest from opportunity.

Carver recognizes that the impact of education extends beyond the classroom walls. The certified teachers who manage our programs are pivotal in shaping students' lives after school hours, contributing academically, socially, and emotionally. This commitment aligns with Carver's vision of ensuring every student, especially Black and Brown, has the best possible education and career opportunities.

As Carver commemorates Martin Luther King Jr. Day, the celebration manifests our daily commitment to realizing the dream of a more inclusive and equitable society. It goes beyond a symbolic gesture, reflecting a profound understanding that education is a powerful tool for societal transformation. The joy of teaching, experienced by Carver's educators, creates an environment where students thrive and develop into leaders who can contribute meaningfully to their communities.

The Carver community's celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a tribute to the man and the enduring ideals he stood for. It's a celebration of the transformative power of education and a commitment to shaping a future where all students, irrespective of their background, can experience the best possible education and career opportunities.

Breakfast with Champions is back to offer you inspiration as you hear about the diverse paths to success you never knew existed!

Calling all curious minds and ambitious spirits! Carver's annual Breakfast with Champions is back, and it's bigger and better than ever. Here's your chance to fuel your future with a delicious, FREE catered breakfast and connect with 10 inspiring local professionals representing a kaleidoscope of careers! This event is more than just breakfast; it's an investment in your future. It's a chance to explore your passions, gain valuable career advice, and build a network of support as you navigate the exciting (and sometimes confusing) world of possibilities ahead. So don't miss out! Mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready to fuel your dreams at Carver's Breakfast with Champions!

Unlock Your Artistic Potential: Dive into Free Classes at Carver's Partner, The Norwalk Art Space!

Class Registration is Open! New art classes start the week of January 29, 2024. Registration is required through the Norwalk Art Space website, where you will find more details about each class. Music classes will be announced in mid-January and will start in mid-February).

We would also like to join the city in congratulating Executive Director Duvian Montoya for being named a Connecticut Arts Hero! This award honors and celebrates "Connecticut residents who are doing inspiring things in, for, or through the arts in Connecticut." 

Did You Know the Surprising Contributions of Carver Community Center?

🏡 Founded in 1938, the Carver Community Center has been an unwavering pillar of support for the people of Norwalk. The current Carver Community Center, established on Academy Street in 1975, is a beacon of community engagement, education, and empowerment, conveniently nestled just one street from downtown Main Street.

🌟 A Hub of Resources: The community center, housing Carver's administrative offices, has become a vital resource for Norwalk residents. Its two floors of classrooms buzz with activity, hosting after-school and summer programs throughout the year. In recent years, the center has been surrounded by new residential and commercial developments, enhancing its accessibility to the Norwalk Library, municipal parking lots, and key retail sites.

The City of Norwalk named the street to honor Carver’s late executive director, Richard N. Fuller

👩‍🏫 Educational Initiatives: Carver's commitment to education is palpable, with a myriad of programs shaping the community's future. From STEAM Expos to career fairs and scholarship events to student recognition ceremonies, the Carver Community Center is a dynamic space for growth and learning.

🏀 Sports Galore: The Carver Community Center is the go-to destination for sports enthusiasts. The center promotes a healthy and active lifestyle among the community members by hosting various basketball leagues, lacrosse, soccer, and dance programs, and a co-ed basketball initiative called Mo's Summer Run.

🎉 Cultural Celebrations: Beyond academics and sports, the Carver Community Center fosters a sense of community through cultural events, holiday parties, and field days. Thanksgiving Food Drives, Breakfast with Champions, and Testimonial Dinners showcase the center's dedication to creating lasting memories for Norwalk residents.

💻 Tech Savvy: Ascending to the second floor unveils the Technology Center, a haven for students and adults. Boasting 24 PCs and eight iMac computers with Retina 5K displays, a 3D printer, 3-D scanner, and video conferencing software, this resource hub is at the forefront of technological education, providing a space for innovation and exploration.

🤝 Collaborative Endeavors: The Carver Community Center doesn't stand alone. Collaborative efforts with organizations like the Norwalk Youth Basketball Association, the Fairfield County Sports Commission’s Cohen Fitness Academy, and the Norwalk Lacrosse Association amplify its impact, creating a tapestry of interconnected community support.

At the heart of Norwalk's community, the Carver Community Center continues to evolve, responding to the needs of its residents with unwavering dedication. From education to sports, technology to cultural celebrations, Carver is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives. Join us in celebrating the vibrant tapestry of Norwalk at the Carver Community Center! #NorwalkCommunity #CarverCenterImpact 🌈

We are conducting a capital campaign to renovate the community center.

Carver's Innovative Approach to Addressing Pandemic Learning Loss

Introduction: In the wake of pandemic-induced learning loss, educational institutions grapple with the most effective strategies to help students catch up. While intensive daily tutoring has gained prominence, Carver's unique methodologies are an efficient and cost-effective solution, particularly our in-school before- and after-school programming conducted by the students’ daytime teachers.

Carver's website, complete with interactive dashboards, showcases the tangible results of this programming. In a landscape where tutoring has become a crucial tool for recovery, Carver's approach sets itself apart from the growing trend of hiring outside tutors.

Here are four key benefits of Carver's approach to providing individualized personal assistance by daytime teachers in an engaging and enriching setting.

1. Timing Matters: One of the significant challenges for schools is scheduling tutoring during normal school hours and finding suitable classroom space. Carver addresses this by incorporating tutoring before and after the school day, eliminating the need for additional scheduling and space allocation issues.

2. Hiring Dilemma: The tutoring industry is booming, but Carver's model circumvents schools' hiring struggles. While tutoring companies are prevalent, they often lack alignment with classroom curricula, resulting in a lack of communication between tutors and teachers. Carver's certified teachers provide consistency and long-term relationships, which are critical for successful tutoring.

3. The Power of Project-Based Enrichment Learning: While traditional academic tutoring is crucial in educational support, after-school project-based, hands-on enrichment learning takes the learning experience to new heights. Unlike tutoring, which often focuses on specific subjects or skills, project-based learning provides a holistic approach that fosters creativity, critical thinking, and practical application. In Carver’s after-school setting, students engage in real-world projects that reinforce academic concepts and encourage problem-solving and teamwork. This experiential learning goes beyond rote memorization, allowing students to explore, experiment, and develop a deep understanding of the subject matter. The benefits extend to the development of essential life skills such as communication, collaboration, and adaptability, which are integral in navigating the complexities of the modern world. After-school enrichment programs create an environment where students can discover and pursue their passions, fostering a love for learning that lasts a lifetime. While traditional tutoring addresses specific academic needs, after-school project-based learning provides a comprehensive educational experience that equips students with the skills and mindset needed to thrive in a dynamic and evolving future.

3. Video Tutoring Effectiveness: Online tutoring is a potential solution to logistical and security challenges associated with in-person tutoring. Carver acknowledges the value of video conferencing sessions but emphasizes the need for more research on its effectiveness. Questions remain about student motivation and whether small, regular doses of video tutoring can match the efficacy of in-person sessions.

4. Humans and Machines: Traditional in-person and online tutoring can be costly. Researchers are exploring the potential of AI-driven platforms, such as Khan Academy's Khanmigo, which provides step-by-step personalized guidance similar to a human tutor, potentially revolutionizing the cost-effectiveness of tutoring. Nevertheless, although Carver has long deployed Khan Academy digital tools, in-person support will remain a Carver priority for its social-emotional learning benefit alone.

Conclusion: As schools grapple with decisions on allocating federal recovery funds, Carver's approach offers a compelling alternative to the prevalent tutoring models. By addressing timing challenges, hiring dilemmas, and embracing the potential of AI, Carver is paving the way for an innovative and effective solution to combat pandemic learning loss.

Empowering Inclusion: State Board of Education Adopts Groundbreaking "Bill of Rights" for Non-English Speakers

In a historic move today, the CT State Board of Education unanimously approved a transformative "bill of rights" for non-English speaking parents, ensuring their essential entitlements in public education. Originating from the 2023 legislative session, this groundbreaking legislation, now part of the omnibus education legislation, House Bill 6762, aims to bridge communication gaps and eliminate barriers families face, regardless of immigration status or language proficiency.

The newly adopted bill of rights, a testament to last year's overwhelming support, addresses the poignant struggles of advocates, predominantly Spanish-speaking parents. Many shared heart-wrenching stories of their challenges in communicating with school officials and staying informed about their children's education. This legislation resounds to those narratives, aiming to empower parents and promote inclusivity within the education system.

The rights outlined in the bill cover a spectrum of crucial aspects, including the right for students to enroll in public schools regardless of immigration status, translation services during critical interactions, participation in bilingual education programs, and access to grade-level programming. Parents will receive progress reports and important documents in their native language, ensuring they are actively involved in their child's educational journey.

The State's Department of Education plans to facilitate the implementation of these rights by providing translated documents to districts, with parents slated to receive copies in their native languages starting in July. Additionally, the rights will be readily available online on local boards of education websites, promoting accessibility.

Irene Parisi, the chief academic officer representing the state's Department of Education, affirmed the commitment to this cause, stating that the state will continue to ensure equitable and inclusive education for all students and their families. This groundbreaking initiative signals a step forward in fostering a more accessible and supportive educational environment for non-English speaking parents, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of an inclusive and diverse education system.

Gratitude to Our Amazing Donors, Partners, Students, and Parents! Wishing All a Joyful and Healthy 2024!

Dear Carver Community,

As we welcome 2024, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to everyone who has been a part of the incredible journey we've had in 2023. It has been a year filled with growth, achievements, and the unwavering support of our dedicated donors, partners, students, and parents.

A Year of Impact:

In 2023, Carver continued to make a positive impact in the lives of over 3,000 students across various schools, including in all the schools in the Norwalk Public Schools district, Side by Side Charter School, the Classical Studies Magnet Academy in Bridgeport, Naugatuck High School, Stamford High School, and the Carver Community Center in Norwalk. Through 66+ before-school, after-school, and summer programs, Carver provided a nurturing environment where children thrived academically, socially, and emotionally.

Our unique programming, aligned with in-school curricula and led by certified teachers, ensures academic success and incorporates recreational, wellness, and cultural components. These elements contribute to the holistic development of our students, enhancing a variety of skills crucial for their future.

Community-Centric Approach:

Carver doesn't stop at school-based programs. We proudly operate over 20 community programs through the Carver Community Center, engaging youth and parents in various activities and support initiatives throughout the year. Our commitment to community-building and parental involvement plays a vital role in the success of our students.

Empowering Futures:

Since 2005, every Carver senior has graduated high school on time; nearly all have become first-generation college students. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to fostering an environment where dreams are encouraged and realized.

Recognition and Trust:

Carver consistently receives the highest ratings from reputable organizations such as the Better Business Bureau, Charity Navigator, Guidestar, and other national agencies. This recognition reflects our dedication to transparency, accountability, and the efficient use of resources our generous donors and partners provide.

A Heartfelt Thank You:

To our donors and partners, your support has been the bedrock of our success. To our students, thank you for your enthusiasm and commitment to learning. To the parents, your involvement is invaluable. You make the Carver community vibrant, supportive, and truly special.

Wishing You a Joyful and Healthy 2024:

As we embark on a new year, Carver extends warm wishes for joy, health, and prosperity to each community member. May 2024 be a year of continued growth, learning, and success for all.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Carver story. Here's to another year of making a difference together!

Maria Fe Luque is attending Harvard University. She is a first-generation college student.

Carver's After the Bell Extravaganza: When the Grinch and Santa Teamed Up for a Holiday Hullabaloo!

The holiday season is synonymous with joy, laughter, and a sprinkle of magic. This year, at Marvin Elementary School, Carver's After the Bell program took the festive cheer to a new level with a Holiday Party that left students wide-eyed and grinning from ear to ear.

"A Grinch-Sized Surprise!"

The highlight of the evening? A surprise appearance by none other than the Grinch himself, in all his green and grouchy glory! From head to toe, our Grinch was fully costumed and utterly convincing, bringing Dr. Seuss's iconic character to life right before the eyes of our After the Bell students.

The mischievous Grinch stole the show (and maybe a candy cane or two) as he spread holiday antics and laughter. The kids were in stitches as he playfully interacted with them, staying true to his Grinchy nature while adding a dose of holiday humor to the festivities.

"Santa Claus Joins the Festivities!"

But the surprises didn't end there. Santa Claus made a grand entrance, rounding out the dynamic duo for an unforgettable evening in a twist that had everyone on the nice list. Santa's rosy cheeks and hearty laugh added to the merriment as he distributed small gifts and posed for pictures with the delighted students.

"Festive Fun and Laughter for All!"

The Carver staff went above and beyond to create a holiday celebration that transcended the ordinary. From festive decorations to holiday tunes, the atmosphere was brimming with warmth and seasonal spirit. The joy on the children's faces was the greatest gift, making every effort put into the event more than worthwhile, including the students’ own effort in decorating themselves!

It was a true holiday extravaganza for everyone involved. The laughter echoed through the halls, and the memories created will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

"Building Community, One Jingle Bell at a Time!"

At Carver, we believe in creating educational experiences and memories that light up a child's world. The Holiday Party at Marvin Elementary School showcased the dedication and creativity of our staff in fostering a sense of community and joy. Moments like these remind us of the magic that happens when we come together to celebrate the season's spirit.

As we wrap up another calendar year of enriching programs and memorable moments, the Carver family wishes everyone a joyful holiday season and a new year filled with laughter, growth, and endless possibilities! 🎄🌟

Season's Greetings and Wishing You a Joyful New Year!

Carver's Year-End Gratitude: Celebrating the Carver Community

L-R: Volunteer Patrick Steele; Mary Martini, Manager of Middle and High School Programs; Tricia Massucco, Director of Elementary School Programs; volunteers Kellee Abdelwahab and Danielle Verardo; Clinton Hamilton, Chief Operating Officer

The end of the year brings about a time of reflection and gratitude, and at The Carver, our hearts are overflowing with appreciation for the incredible community that surrounds us. As we bid farewell to 2023, we express our deepest thanks to the students, parents, donors, volunteers, program partners, and staff who have been the driving force behind The Carver’s endurance and success.

A Community of Champions

One shining example of the power of community is volunteer extraordinaire Kellee Abdelwahab. Kellee rallied her mom friends in New Canaan to raise financial support and donate toys for Carver's annual Holiday Party for Norwalk families. Dubbed “Kellee Klaus,” she assembled a team of volunteer elves to help, including Danielle Verardo and Julie Bennett. Kellee further inspired members of the Young Women’s League of New Canaan, led by President Domenica Monaghan, to generously donate even more toys for our children. Way to go, Kellee Klaus! Kellee and Julie volunteer on Carver’s Board Development Committee and serve as Co-Chairs of Carver’s annual Child of America Gala on Friday, May 17, 2024.

Rowayton volunteer Patrick Steele significantly impacted this holiday season, consistently stepping up to lend a helping hand. Patrick and Susan Weinberger, another longtime friend of Carver's, are co-leading our new volunteer program in 2024.

Sam and Jane Marrone also joined us to bring holiday cheer to Carver's kids this year.

The Greens Farms Academy volunteers Kevin Coll (English Dept Chair) and Marcella Wilson (a former GFA teacher) and student volunteers, led by Max Kim, Carver board member Inwha Huh’s son, played a pivotal role in ensuring the holiday season was filled with joy for the entire Carver community.

A Heartfelt Thank You

At the heart of it all, the community breathes life into every initiative at The Carver. As we reflect on the year gone by, we recognize that none of our accomplishments would have been possible without your unwavering support. Your dedication fuels our work; you are always in our thoughts as we strive to make a positive impact.

To our devoted community, we thank you for making 2023 a year of remarkable achievements.

Looking Ahead to 2024

As we eagerly anticipate the dawn of 2024, we are excited about the prospect of continuing to deliver the quality, rigor, and insight you have come to expect from us. Your attention and generous support have laid the foundation for our success, and we are committed to exceeding your expectations in the coming year.

In closing, we express our deepest gratitude and extend warm wishes to you and your loved ones for a happy New Year filled with good health and peace. Thank you from everyone at The Carver for making the Carver community whole. Here's to a bright and successful 2024 together!