Carver's “Kick Off to Kindergarten” Summer Program in Partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools!

Carver is excited to announce the expansion of the “Kick Off to Kindergarten” summer program in close collaboration with Bridgeport Public Schools (BPS). This program is being conducted this summer at Geraldine Clayton Magnet Academy, Waltersville School, Interdistrict Discovery Magnet, and Cesar Batalla School.

Carver’s summer program in Bridgeport engages 10 to 15 children in each school in enriching activities designed to prepare them for their first year of school by introducing them to their first days of school!

The “Kick Off to Kindergarten” program focuses on social-emotional skill development, academic exposure, literature, and enrichment activities. Running for four hours a day (including breakfast and lunch) over 19 days in July, the program is tailored to offer a comprehensive early childhood education experience. Certified BPS teachers, alongside paraprofessionals with early childhood credentials, implement the program. All staff are highly qualified BPS employees dedicated to early childhood education.

Carver is making it possible for more classrooms to be engaged in the program this summer. The aim is to make the program more accessible to families throughout the district. The initiative, launched by BPS last summer, provides a school experience to children who have had little or no exposure to a school environment before beginning Kindergarten. Recognizing the success and impact of the initial program, BPS requested Carver to expand it further this year.

John and Ethel Kashulon were children of Eastern European immigrants who owned and operated Kashulon’s Market on Sheridan Street in Bridgeport. Ethel worked at the Bridgeport Housing Authority for 53 years – their longest tenured employee.

Carver could embrace this new opportunity because of the generous support of the John and Ethel Kashulon Foundation. The foundation's contributions have significantly bolstered Carver’s work in Bridgeport over the years. Thanks to the foundation's commitment, we have provided transformative programs that uplift and empower our many youth.

The partnership between Carver and Bridgeport Public Schools has been growing strong since the development and implementation of the Classical Studies Magnet Academy Extended Day Program in 2018. This collaboration has been instrumental in fulfilling Carver’s mission to help each child reach their fullest potential as a student and individual. The “Kick Off to Kindergarten” summer program aligns perfectly with the mission of BPS’s Early Childhood Department, which strives to create lifelong learners who are valued members of the school community.

Pre-kindergarten education sets a strong foundation for lifelong learning and development. It helps children develop essential social-emotional skills, such as cooperation, empathy, and self-regulation, which are vital for their success in school and beyond. Academic exposure during these early years fosters a love for learning, curiosity, and critical thinking, preparing children for the structured kindergarten environment. Furthermore, early literacy and numeracy experiences enhance cognitive development, ensuring children enter kindergarten with the skills and confidence needed to succeed. Investing in pre-kindergarten education benefits individual children and contributes to communities' well-being and future success.

With this expanded summer program, Carver continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing valuable educational experiences that lay the foundation for a successful academic journey. The partnership with Bridgeport Public Schools exemplifies the power of collaborative efforts in enhancing early childhood education and ensuring that every child has the opportunity to thrive.

"She Who Conquers": Our Empowering Summer Program for Naugatuck High School Girls

Jade Trowery, 17, of Naugatuck, right, participates in a empowerment class at Naugatuck High School in Naugatuck on Wednesday.

Carver recently won the renewal of a highly competitive Interdistrict Cooperative Grant (IDCG) for the 2024-2025 school year. This grant will continue funding transformative programs at Naugatuck and Stamford High Schools.

This grant, initially awarded in 2022, supports initiatives that increase student achievement and reduce racial, ethnic, and economic isolation.

One standout program funded by this grant is "She Who Conquers," a summer pilot initiative significantly impacting minority teen girls at Naugatuck High School.

The following story is based on this news article written by Paul Singley, a former Republican-American reporter now a teacher in the Naugatuck School system, who wrote the following article about this IDCG-Carver-funded program for Steven Valenti’s Republican-American column.

“She Who Conquers” is designed to empower minority girls who were chronically absent in the past school year. This three-week program allows these students to build confidence, leadership skills, and a sense of community. Jade Trowery, an incoming senior at Naugatuck High School, is one of the participants who has benefited immensely from the program. Reflecting on her struggles, Trowery said, "Last year, I didn’t show up." However, inspired by a guest speaker's message about simply showing up, she feels motivated to turn her high school experience around.

"She Who Conquers" aligns perfectly with Carver's mission to close opportunity gaps and ensure all children graduate high school on time, ready for college and careers. Eileen Mezzo, Associate Principal at NHS, collaborated with Angela Griffin, the district's director of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging, and April Vaughn, the program creator, to design a course that fosters empowerment and personal growth.

Jade Trowery, 17, of Naugatuck, third from left, participates in an empowerment class at Naugatuck High School in Naugatuck on Wednesday.

The program features inspiring guest speakers, including a Black woman entrepreneur and a female empowerment advocate from India. These speakers shared their journeys of overcoming obstacles and the power of positive thinking. These sessions resonated deeply with the girls, reinforcing the program's core message: "Just show up."

In addition to motivational talks, the girls participated in field trips to places like Ulta Beauty Store, The Club Health and Fitness Center, and the Naugatuck YMCA. These excursions were enjoyable and educational, teaching the girls essential life skills. Jennifer Stone, a physical education teacher and assistant athletic director at NHS, highlighted a particularly impactful moment when the girls were asked to describe their reflections in a mirror, resulting in a wave of positive affirmations.

Eleanor Jimenez-Franck, the high school's on-track coordinator, emphasized the importance of creating a supportive environment for these young women. "A lot of these girls have struggled in various ways, and they are very much aware of that," she explained. "For them to know there is a space where they can form relationships... it is extremely important to them showing up to class and achieving the things they want to achieve."

The program has been a game-changer for participants like Trowery, who now feels more confident and connected. "I really enjoy the fact that it has gotten me out of my shell," she said. "Being here around so many beautiful people with so many beautiful smiles, it just makes me feel more confident in myself."

As Carver looks forward to the continued success of "She Who Conquers" and other initiatives under the renewed IDCG funding, it remains committed to its mission of closing opportunity gaps and ensuring all students are prepared for future success.

Exploring Science and Nature: Carver’s Summer Transition Program at West Rocks Middle School

Summer is a time of discovery and growth for the rising 6th graders in Carver’s summer transition program at West Rocks Middle School.

Under the expert guidance of Michael Richards, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Subject Area Leader, and Carver's longtime Grade 6 Summer Transition Program Director, our students are getting a head start navigating their new school environment and building the skills they need for success. Carver’s summer transition programs are specially designed to offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment STEAM activities, free transportation, and full-day activities that benefit working families. These elements create a supportive and engaging environment where students can thrive.

Mad Science Brings Learning to Life

A standout moment in our summer program was a visit from one of our regular STEAM program providers, Mad Science. Known for its interactive and hands-on approach to learning, Mad Science brought a series of exciting experiments that captured the imagination and curiosity of our students. The day was filled with various experiments using chemicals, dry ice, and even the ever-popular "elephant's toothpaste." Each activity was designed to foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills while providing a fun and memorable learning experience.

Students were enthralled as they watched chemical reactions unfold before their eyes. The dry ice experiments were a particular hit, with students eagerly participating and asking questions about the science behind the bubbling and smoking effects. The grand finale, "elephant's toothpaste," was met with wide eyes and applause as the foamy substance erupted in a colorful display. These interactive programs by Mad Science are more than just entertainment; they are a vital part of our educational approach. By experiencing science hands-on, students develop a deeper understanding of scientific principles and a genuine interest in the subject. This learning method also helps build confidence as students see their ideas and hypotheses come to life.

Earthplace Educators Introduce Wildlife Wonders

Thanks to the inspiring visit from Earthplace educators, our budding scientists and conservationists are discovering the joys and wonders of nature. Earthplace, a renowned nonprofit organization based in Westport, seamlessly blends the wonders of science and conservation into their teaching. Their visit to West Rocks Middle School was no exception. Students had the opportunity to meet and learn about various animals, including snakes, turtles, and bats. This hands-on experience allowed the children to engage creatively with academic and enrichment activities while emphasizing STEAM principles (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) and project-based learning.

Through education, Earthplace deepens children's understanding of the natural world, encouraging them to care more deeply about their environment. Their science and research initiatives promote environmental awareness, guiding individual actions toward sustainability. Civic engagement, another cornerstone of Earthplace's philosophy, allows transformative ideas to be shared, ultimately fostering more sustainable communities.

Creativity and Teamwork Through Tie-Dye and STEM Challenges

Carver students also had the chance to express their creativity and teamwork skills through tie-dying t-shirts and participating in a STEM challenge. The tie-dye activity was a vibrant and fun way for students to explore color patterns and artistic expression. Each student created a unique t-shirt, showcasing their individuality and creativity.

The STEM challenge involved building towers using just marshmallows and spaghetti. This activity was fun and educational, as it encouraged students to think critically and work collaboratively. By designing and constructing their towers, students learned about structural integrity, balance, and engineering principles in an engaging and hands-on manner.

A Nurturing Environment for Future Leaders

At Carver, we believe in providing a well-rounded education beyond the classroom. Our summer transition program at West Rocks Middle School is a testament to this belief, offering students unique opportunities to explore new subjects and develop essential skills in a supportive and engaging environment. We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our staff, like Michael Richards, and the contributions of our community partners, like Mad Science and Earthplace. Together, we create a dynamic and nurturing space where our students can grow and succeed.

As our summer programs continue, we look forward to more exciting experiences and the continued growth of our students. Stay tuned for more updates on the incredible journey of our future leaders at Carver.

Naramake Summer Campers Thrive at The Adventure Park: A Perfect Blend of Fun, Learning, and Wellness

This summer, the young adventurers of Naramake Elementary School's After the Bell (ATB) Enrichment Camp embarked on an exciting field trip to The Adventure Park in Storrs, CT. This excursion, one of the many highlights of our camp program, offers children aged 5-11 a unique opportunity to learn and grow outside the traditional classroom setting. Operating from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, with an extended day option until 5:30 pm for working families, our camp ensures every child experiences a summer full of fun, education, and enrichment.

At The Adventure Park, our campers are immersed in an environment encouraging them to engage their minds and bodies. The park's challenge courses in the trees foster problem-solving skills, enhance motor skills, and build self-esteem and confidence. Successfully navigating these courses instills a positive mindset in students, helping them develop leadership skills that translate into their everyday lives and classroom dynamics.

The Adventure Park is more than just an outdoor playground; it’s a place where learning comes to life. Campers are exposed to STEM concepts through the park’s Maker Space and various adventures that seamlessly integrate science, technology, engineering, and mathematics into fun activities. This hands-on approach reinforces what they learn during camp and supports their classroom lessons uniquely and engagingly. Our students always return from The Adventure Park brimming with excitement and newfound knowledge, eager to apply what they've learned.

Recreation and wellness are core components of Carver’s programming during the summer and throughout the school year. Physical activities like those offered at The Adventure Park are essential for children’s overall well-being. They help to reduce stress, improve physical health, and enhance social skills. By encouraging children to engage in recreational activities, we support their holistic development and foster a lifelong love of learning and wellness.

The ATB Enrichment Camp at Naramake Elementary School offers a variety of activities designed to nurture every aspect of a child's growth. In addition to the adventure-filled field trips, our program includes science experiments, art projects, marine science exploration, engineering challenges, and social-emotional learning sessions. These activities are carefully crafted to provide all campers with a balanced and enriching experience.

Parents can ensure their children spend their summer in a safe, stimulating, and nurturing environment. Carver’s commitment to excellence in education and enrichment is evident in every aspect of our programs. The ATB Enrichment Camp helps children develop academically and supports their physical and emotional well-being.

For more information about Carver’s summer programs and the ATB Enrichment Camp, please visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make this summer a time of discovery, adventure, and growth for every child!

Summer Campers at Naramake Elementary School Thrive in After the Bell Enrichment Camp: Exploring the Arts and STEAM Learning

This summer, Naramake Elementary School is buzzing with excitement as children aged 5-11 participate in Carver’s After the Bell (ATB) Enrichment Camp. Running from 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, with an extended day option until 5:30 pm for working families, the camp offers a comprehensive and dynamic learning experience. The program is designed to balance fun and educational activities, ensuring every child can explore, learn, and grow.

One of the standout features of the ATB Enrichment Camp is its robust focus on the arts. Recognizing the importance of art in holistic education, Carver has integrated various artistic activities into the camp's curriculum. Campers can express themselves creatively through painting, drawing, music, and drama. These activities foster creativity and support the development of critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence.

The emphasis on art is vital to Carver’s broader commitment to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) enrichment learning. By incorporating the arts into STEAM, Carver ensures that students receive a well-rounded education that prepares them for future challenges. Research has shown that exposure to the arts can enhance academic achievement, improve social skills, and boost self-confidence. At the ATB Enrichment Camp, children are encouraged to explore their artistic talents while delving into other exciting subjects such as science, marine science, and engineering.

In addition to art, the camp offers a variety of enrichment activities that cater to diverse interests and promote comprehensive learning. Campers participate in hands-on science experiments, learn about marine ecosystems, and engage in engineering challenges that spark their curiosity and imagination. Social-emotional learning (SEL) is also a key component of the program, helping children develop essential skills such as empathy, teamwork, and resilience.

A highlight of the ATB Enrichment Camp is the weekly field trips, which allow campers to explore new environments and gain real-world experiences. These excursions complement the in-camp activities and broaden the children’s understanding of the world.

Carver’s ATB Enrichment Camp at Naramake Elementary School exemplifies the organization’s dedication to providing high-quality, enriching summer programs. By integrating the arts into the STEAM framework, Carver ensures that campers have fun and develop the skills and knowledge they need to succeed academically and personally.

Parents and guardians can ensure their children spend their summer days in a safe, engaging, and educational environment. With a wide range of activities and a strong focus on holistic development, the ATB Enrichment Camp sets the stage for a bright future for all its participants.

For more information about Carver’s summer programs and the ATB Enrichment Camp, please visit our website or contact us directly. Let’s make this summer a time of discovery, creativity, and growth for every child!

Carver Receives $5,000 Donation from Crane Charitable Funds

Bill Alexander, Senior Accountant at Crane NXT, with Carver summer campers and Elsie Lopez, Carver Executive Administrator, and other Carver staff

We are thrilled to announce a generous $5,000 donation from Crane Charitable Funds to Carver! This contribution will support our ongoing programs and new initiatives, enriching the lives of Norwalk's youth.

Carver was honored to welcome Bill Alexander, a Senior Accountant at Crane NXT, who presented the check. Bill, a longtime friend of Carver, grew up in Norwalk and spent many happy hours playing basketball in our gym with his friends. Now residing in Stamford, Bill remains a strong advocate for our work and was delighted to nominate Carver for this donation once again.

During his visit, Bill joined our summer campers for a fun session of shooting hoops in the gym, reminiscing about his own childhood experiences here. He also took the opportunity to learn about the exciting new developments at Carver, including the construction of our new Teen Center, set to open in September.

We are deeply grateful to Bill and Crane Charitable Funds for their continued support and commitment to Carver's mission. Their generosity ensures that we can keep providing valuable programs and services to the youth of Norwalk.

Stay tuned for more updates on the new Teen Center and other exciting happenings at Carver!

Carver Receives Generous Support from The Community Fund of Darien

Carver Director of Philanthropy Nikki LaFaye standing with Lisa Haas, Director of Community Grants, The Community Fund of Darien

We are thrilled to announce that The Community Fund of Darien has renewed its generous support of Carver again this year. The awards ceremony occurred on Tuesday, July 16, at The Meadowlands at the Darien Community Association. The event was a grand celebration of community spirit, attended by over 130 guests, including Norwalk Mayor Rilling, Terrie Wood, board members, volunteer review panelists, and many other esteemed members of the community.

This year, The Community Fund of Darien awarded its most enormous grant volume in its 73-year history, distributing $790,500 to 36 local nonprofit organizations. These grants support vital services such as food, housing, mental and physical healthcare, job and skills training, and youth success programs for Darien, Norwalk, and Stamford residents.

"The $790,500 grant pool includes $715,000 in Community Grants, $15,500 in Youth Community Fund Grants, and a new Darien initiative that recently raised $60,000 to place a TeenTalk mental health counselor at Middlesex Middle School in collaboration with Kids in Crisis and The Darien Health Department," said Janet King, Executive Director of The Community Fund of Darien. "We are profoundly grateful that our donors generously responded to the growing needs of our neighbors."

Since 1951, The Community Fund of Darien has distributed over $28 million to local nonprofits and community initiatives, impacting thousands of lives. Lisa Haas, the Fund's grants director, presented the grantees with their awards, emphasizing the importance of community support and investment in impactful programs that address basic human needs.

"The support from our donors makes today’s celebration possible. Caring for our neighbors and investing in proven and impactful programs that address basic human needs strengthen the fabric of our community," Haas said. "We can all be very proud of this year’s outpouring of support and generosity by donors and volunteers alike."

Carver is honored to be among the recipients of these grants and is proud to collaborate with the following local nonprofits, all of whom share a commitment to enhancing the well-being of our community:

• Abilis

• All Our Kin

• Americares Free Clinics

• Boys and Girls Club of Stamford

• Building One Community

• Child Guidance Center of Southern CT

• Children’s Learning Centers of Fairfield County

• Domestic Violence Crisis Center

• Domus

• Family & Children’s Agency

• Family Centers

• Filling In the Blanks

• Food Rescue

• Future 5

• Horizons at CT State Norwalk

• Horizons at New Canaan Country School

• Human Services Council

• Inspirica

• Intempo

• Kids In Crisis

• Laurel House

• Liberation Programs

• Mid-Fairfield Community Care Center

• New Covenant Center

• Open Doors

• Pacific House

• Person to Person

• Saint Joseph Parenting Center

• Senior Nutrition Programs

• SilverSource

• Stamford Cradle to Career

• Stamford Peace Youth Foundation

• STAR Inc. Lighting the Way

• The Darien Depot

• The Rowan Center

We thank The Community Fund of Darien for their unwavering support and commitment to our mission. Thanks to them, we can continue positively impacting and creating a stronger, more resilient community.

Engineering Excitement: Carver’s Summer Transition Program for Rising 6th Graders at West Rocks Middle School

The transition to middle school can be daunting for students, but Carver’s summer transition programs are here to ensure our rising 6th graders at West Rocks Middle School make this move with confidence and enthusiasm.

Under the expert leadership of Michael Richards, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Subject Area Leader, and Carver's longtime Grade 6 Summer Transition Program Director, our students thrive in an environment designed to foster growth and curiosity.

Carver’s summer transition programs in each of Norwalk’s four middle schools offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment STEAM activities, free transportation, and full-day activities benefiting working families. This comprehensive approach helps students learn the basics of navigating their new school, meet their teachers and classmates, and build a solid academic foundation.

One of the standout aspects of our program this summer has been the engaging STEM activities that have captured the imagination and enthusiasm of our students. These hands-on projects are fun and help develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

Building the Tallest Tower

Using only paper and tape, our students were challenged to construct the tallest tower possible. This activity required them to think creatively about structure and stability while working collaboratively with their peers. The emerging towers were as diverse as the students, showcasing various design ideas and engineering principles.

DaVinci Bridges

Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci's ingenuity, our students used rubber bands and pencils to create "DaVinci Bridges." This activity highlighted the importance of tension and balance in engineering, teaching students how simple materials can create strong and stable structures. The excitement in the room was palpable as each group tested the strength of their bridges, learning through trial and error.

Creating Aluminum Foil Boats

In another exciting project, students designed and built boats from aluminum foil. The goal was to create a ship that could float and carry as many small objects as possible without sinking. This activity combined buoyancy, weight distribution, and material properties, challenging students to apply scientific principles practically and enjoyably.

These STEM activities are a testament to Carver’s commitment to providing a well-rounded and engaging educational experience. By allowing students to experiment, build, and create, we are fostering a love of learning and a curiosity about the world around them.

Igniting Curiosity: Carver’s Summer Transition Program for Rising 6th Graders at West Rocks Middle School with Mad Science

Summer is a time of discovery and growth for the rising 6th graders in Carver’s summer transition program at West Rocks Middle School. Under the expert guidance of Michael Richards, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Subject Area Leader, and Carver's longtime Grade 6 Summer Transition Program Director, our students are getting a head start navigating their new school environment and building the skills they need for success.

Carver’s summer transition programs are specially designed to offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment STEAM activities, free transportation, and full-day activities that benefit working families. These elements create a supportive and engaging environment where students can thrive.

A standout moment in our summer program was a visit from one of our regular STEAM program providers, Mad Science. Known for its interactive and hands-on approach to learning, Mad Science brought a series of exciting experiments that captured the imagination and curiosity of our students.

The day was filled with various experiments using chemicals, dry ice, and even the ever-popular "elephant's toothpaste." Each activity was designed to foster creative thinking and problem-solving skills while providing a fun and memorable learning experience.

Students were enthralled as they watched chemical reactions unfold before their eyes. The dry ice experiments were a particular hit, with students eagerly participating and asking questions about the science behind the bubbling and smoking effects. The grand finale, "elephant's toothpaste," was met with wide eyes and applause as the foamy substance erupted in a colorful display.

These interactive programs by Mad Science are more than just entertainment; they are a vital part of our educational approach. By experiencing science hands-on, students develop a deeper understanding of scientific principles and a genuine interest in the subject. This learning method also helps build confidence as students see their ideas and hypotheses come to life.

At Carver, we believe in providing a well-rounded education beyond the classroom. Our summer transition program at West Rocks Middle School is a testament to this belief, offering students unique opportunities to explore new subjects and develop essential skills in a supportive and engaging environment.

We are incredibly grateful for the dedication of our staff, like Michael Richards, and the contributions of our community partners, like Mad Science. Together, we create a dynamic and nurturing space where our students can grow and succeed.

As our summer programs continue, we look forward to more exciting experiences and the continued growth of our students. Stay tuned for more updates on the incredible journey of our future leaders at Carver.

Building Confidence and Connections: Carver’s Summer Transition Program for Rising 6th Graders at West Rocks Middle School

Carver summer transition students with Hank, the therapy dog!

As the summer sun shines brightly, Carver’s summer transition programs continue to light the way for rising 6th graders in Norwalk. At West Rocks Middle School, our dedicated team, led by Michael Richards, Grade 6 Social Studies Teacher, Social Studies Subject Area Leader, and Carver's longtime Grade 6 Summer Transition Program Director, ensures a seamless and enriching transition for our young students.

Carver’s summer transition programs in Norwalk’s four middle schools are designed to offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment STEAM activities, free transportation, and full-day activities benefiting working families. This holistic approach helps students learn the basics of navigating their new school environment while meeting their new teachers and classmates.

A recent highlight of our program at West Rocks was a special visit from Jen Duran, a West Rocks Middle School staff member, and her therapy dog, Hank. Jen and Hank brought joy and learning to our summer students, demonstrating the unique bond between humans and animals and the benefits of therapy dogs in educational settings.

During their visit, students had the opportunity to learn about training a therapy dog. They discovered how Hank was instructed to provide comfort and support, especially in a school environment. The day's highlight was when each student spent time reading to Hank. This activity, proven to promote reading fluency and confidence, allowed our students to practice their reading skills in a supportive and non-judgmental environment.

The benefits of this interaction were immediate and profound. Students initially hesitant to read aloud found themselves more at ease and willing to engage. Hank's gentle presence created a calm and welcoming atmosphere, encouraging even the most reluctant readers to participate.

Carver’s commitment to enriching our students' experiences extends beyond traditional academics. By incorporating activities like reading to a therapy dog, we foster a love of learning and build essential skills to serve our students well as they transition to middle school and beyond.

As we continue our summer journey, we are grateful for the support of our dedicated staff, like Michael Richards, and the unique contributions of community members like Jen Duran and Hank. Together, we create a nurturing and dynamic environment where our students can thrive.

Stay tuned for more updates on our summer programs and the incredible experiences we are sharing with our future leaders. At Carver, we are dedicated to making every moment count as we prepare our students for the exciting challenges and opportunities ahead.