Perfect Summer Finale: Carver ATB Kids Enjoy a Day at Sherwood Island State Park

As the sun set on one of the final days of Carver's After the Bell (ATB) summer program, the children, aged 5-11, reveled in a day full of excitement and exploration at Sherwood Island State Park. Connecticut's first state park, Sherwood Island, provided the perfect backdrop for a memorable closing chapter to a summer packed with enrichment activities.

A Day of Discovery and Delight

Sherwood Island, located on Norwalk's scenic shoreline, offered the ATB kids a variety of experiences. The mile-long beach became a playground where the children splashed in the waters of Long Island Sound, collected unique seashells, and built sandcastles. Guided by their dedicated counselors, the children also visited the Living 9-11 Memorial, a poignant reminder of history and a place for quiet reflection amidst the day's fun.

Hands-On Learning in Nature's Classroom

The park’s 235 acres of beach, wetlands, and coastal forest were a vast outdoor classroom. The children on this day at the beach and throughout their ATB summer experience engaged in activities that included science, art, marine science, engineering, and social-emotional learning. At Sherwood Island, they explored the park’s diverse ecosystems, observed coastal wildlife, and learned about the importance of environmental conservation. They marveled at the different plant species, observed birds in their natural habitat, and even spotted some small marine creatures in the tidal pools.

Crafting Memories and Friendships

Throughout the summer, field trips like this one to Sherwood Island provided the children with opportunities to bond with their peers, develop new skills, and build lasting friendships. The culmination of these experiences was evident as the children laughed and played together, celebrating the end of a fantastic summer.

A Rich History of Public Access

Sherwood Island’s story is one of perseverance and public spirit. Almost not becoming a park, the state faced a 23-year battle against wealthy landowners to secure enough land for public access. Finally, in 1914, the state purchased the first piece of land, and today, Sherwood Island stands as a testament to the victory of public recreation over private interests.

Looking Ahead

As the ATB kids bid farewell to summer and look forward to the upcoming school year, the memories made at this summer will undoubtedly stay with them. This enriching experience, like many others provided by Carver’s ATB summer program, has helped to nurture their curiosity, foster a love for nature, and strengthen their social and emotional development.

The Carver community is grateful for another successful summer and looks forward to continuing our mission of providing enriching, educational, and enjoyable experiences for all our students. Here’s to more adventures and learning in the seasons to come!

Unlock Your Child's Potential: Enroll in Carver's 2024-2025 School Year Programs Today!

As the 2024-2025 school year approaches, parents are looking for enriching, supportive, and engaging programs to help their children succeed. Carver’s before and after-school programs are now open for enrollment at Norwalk’s public elementary, middle, and high schools, Side By Side Charter School, and the Carver Community Center.

Why Choose Carver?

Carver’s programs are designed to improve academic achievement, enhance socio-emotional skills, and boost school engagement and attendance. Our non-academic objectives focus on developing positive self-perceptions, school bonding, and social behaviors. We align our programs with in-school curricula and employ certified teachers from the students' own schools to lead the programs. This ensures a seamless educational experience that supports every child’s unique learning journey.

Programs Tailored to Every Student

Each school gives its Carver program a unique name, reflecting its integration into the school community. Our programs are infused with Project-Based Learning in the STEAM subjects, providing students with hands-on learning experiences that foster critical thinking and creativity. Recreational, wellness, and cultural activities further enhance a variety of skills, making learning fun and meaningful.

Removing Barriers to Participation

Carver believes in providing opportunities for every child, regardless of barriers. We offer free transportation and maintain a minimum 10:1 student-to-staff ratio to ensure personalized attention. Our certified teachers provide academic support, while additional staff facilitate project-based activities. This structure allows us to create a safe, engaging, and supportive environment where students can thrive.

The Carver Difference

Carver programming is organized around six core principles:

1. High Expectations: We aim for students to graduate high school on time and be college-ready.

2. Academic Rigor: We focus on project-based and individualized learning to challenge and inspire students.

3. Building Healthy Relationships: Our programs foster strong connections among students, teachers, and families.

4. Student Voice: We empower students to take responsibility for their learning and growth.

5. Community Building: Through cooperative decision-making, students learn the value of community and teamwork.

6. Youth Development: We recognize each student’s strengths, needs, and learning styles, providing tailored support to help them succeed.

Comprehensive Support and Enrichment

Our partnerships with providers like the Maritime Aquarium and Mad Science offer additional project-based learning and enrichment opportunities. Professional volunteers enhance our programs by offering real-world experiences and mentorship, ensuring that our students receive a well-rounded education.

Social-Emotional Learning (SEL) at the Core

Social-emotional learning is woven into every aspect of Carver programming. Our focus on SEL results in improved social and emotional competencies, prosocial behavior, intrinsic motivation, and a higher sense of self-worth. By advancing educational equity and excellence through authentic school-family-community partnerships, we create learning environments that feature trusting and collaborative relationships, rigorous curriculum, and ongoing evaluation.

Join the Carver Family Today!

Parents, don’t miss out on this opportunity to give your child a head start. Enroll them in Carver’s before and after-school programs today and watch them grow into motivated, capable, and success-oriented individuals with school spirit and a love for learning!

PROGRAM CONTACTS

For questions about our After the Bell (before & after-school) programs in Norwalk’s elementary schools, please contact Tricia Massucco, our Director of Elementary School-Based Programs, at (203) 838-4305 ext. 115; tricia@carvercenterct.org.

For questions about middle and high school after-school programs operating in schools, please contact Mary Martini, our Manager of School-Based Programs, at (203) 838-4305, ext. 118, or mary@carvercenterct.org.

For questions about Jr. YDP at the Carver Community Center and the Carver After School Program for Education and Recreation (CASPER), don't hesitate to get in touch with Waid Ramsubhag - Program Manager, (203) 838-4305, ext. 120; waid@carvercenterct.org

Vote Early, Make a Difference: Get Involved with Carver's Civic Engagement

Early Voting: Carver is a designated Civily Engaged Organization. As such, we want to help spread the word that if you are busy or out of town on August 13, you can vote in person in the 2024 Primary Election the week before! Early voting is available August 5-11. Learn more at MyVote.CT.gov today! #earlyvoting #CTvotesearly.

The state primary election is scheduled for Aug. 13, but voters will have a full week to appear in person at their local polling locations. Then, in November, the general election will decide who becomes president of the United States. In this primary election, all voters registered as either Democrat or Republican can vote early.  New voters or those unaffiliated with either party can vote early if they enroll in a major party.

Olympic Fun at Carver: Apollo Hosts an Unforgettable Day of Games and Giving

The excitement was palpable at West Rocks Middle School field as over 150 Carver campers, aged 5 to 13, gathered for an unforgettable Apollo Carver Olympic Day organized by the generous employees of Apollo Global Management, the American asset management firm. The energy and enthusiasm of the campers and the Apollo team made for a day full of laughter, fun, and friendly competition.

Dressed in vibrant, color-coded t-shirts representing 15 countries, the young athletes embraced the spirit of the Olympics with pride and excitement. The campers participated in various classic games and challenges, each designed to promote teamwork, perseverance, and, most importantly, enjoyment.

The Apollo Carver Olympic Day was a unique teaching opportunity. This event connected the current games in France to our campers’ life narratives. The Apollo team, embodying the 2024 Paris Olympics' motto, CITIUS, ALTIUS, FORTIUS—FASTER, HIGHER, STRONGER, demonstrated the essence of aspiration, achievement, and excellence. 

The Apollo Carver Olympic games included relay races, baseball, musical chairs, water balloon toss, tug-of-war, and burlap sack races. With each game, the campers demonstrated sportsmanship by cheering on their peers and celebrating victories together.

The campers engaged in activities that mirrored the athleticism and determination in the global games. Through interactive sessions, the Apollo team emphasized the importance of setting high aspirations, striving for personal excellence, and pushing beyond perceived limits. This experience empowered the campers to view their potential through the lens of Olympic greatness, inspiring confidence.

One of the day's highlights was the awarding of medals to all participants. Every camper received a shiny token of their achievements, which brought smiles and pride to their faces. In a touching moment that captured the event's spirit, one young girl asked if she could have an extra medal as a birthday gift for her mom.

Apollo’s philanthropic support of Carver’s programs has been instrumental in enriching the lives of countless young people. Their commitment to fostering an environment of growth, learning, and joy aligns seamlessly with Carver’s mission of equipping students for global competitiveness.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Apollo

Carver is deeply grateful to Apollo for organizing this incredible day and their ongoing support throughout the year. Apollo’s generous contributions create meaningful experiences and cherished memories for Carver kids.

The Apollo Carver Olympic Day exemplifies the powerful impact of community partnership and the positive change that can be achieved when businesses and nonprofits come together for a common cause. Through these shared efforts, we can continue to inspire the next generation, empowering them to strive for excellence on and off the field.

Closing out the day with treats from the ice cream truck, the sun beamed on this happy day. The laughter and cheers of the campers lingered in the air, serving as a testament to the joy and camaraderie fostered by Apollo’s dedication and generosity. We look forward to many more years of partnership and shared success with Apollo, continuing to make a difference in the lives of Carver students.

Max Kim’s Inspiring Lacrosse Clinic Enriches Carver Community Center’s Summer Camp

At the Carver Community Center, summer campers were in for an exciting treat as Max Kim, a rising senior and co-captain of the Greens Farms Academy Varsity Lacrosse team, led an engaging lacrosse clinic. This marks the second summer that Max has organized this clinic, showcasing his commitment to community service and youth development.

Max, along with his teammates Brendan Shanehan and Yasiel Espinal, introduced the campers to the exhilarating game of lacrosse. Their enthusiasm and generous equipment donations, including sticks, balls, and a goal, ensured the campers had everything they needed to dive into this dynamic sport.

Lacrosse, a game that combines elements of soccer, basketball, and hockey, is known for its fast pace and emphasis on teamwork. It offers a unique blend of physical activity, strategy, and fun, making it an excellent choice for young students. Learning lacrosse can be particularly beneficial for Carver summer campers as it promotes physical fitness, improves hand-eye coordination, and fosters essential social skills such as teamwork and communication.

Max began the session by explaining the basics of lacrosse, introducing the campers to the equipment, and demonstrating some fundamental techniques. The campers eagerly listened and watched, fascinated by the sport's unique style and the skillful way Max handled his lacrosse stick.

As the day progressed, the campers engaged in drills and mini-games, where they practiced passing, catching, and shooting. The young players quickly picked up the rules and techniques, showcasing their newfound skills with pride.

The introduction of lacrosse to the Carver campers highlights the sport's value beyond physical exercise. It encourages young children to step out of their comfort zones, try new activities, and build self-confidence as they master new skills. The focus on teamwork in lacrosse also helps students learn the importance of collaboration and supporting one another—values that resonate deeply with Carver's mission of fostering growth and excellence.

Carver Community Center is proud to be a part of the Greens Farms Academy Community Service Board, an initiative led internally by Max Kim as part of the GFA Community Service Club. This collaboration has been instrumental in strengthening the relationship between the two organizations. Thanks to Max’s invitation, Waid Ramsubhag, Carver’s Manager of the CASPER and Jr. YDP programs, has had the opportunity to present to this GFA group, further enhancing the partnership and fostering a spirit of mutual learning and support.

Max Kim's generous volunteer spirit sets a remarkable example of youth leadership. His willingness to share his passion and knowledge reflects a deep commitment to community service and a genuine desire to impact others positively. By donating equipment and spending time with the campers, Max has created a lasting memory and potentially sparked a lifelong interest in lacrosse among the students.

As the sun set on a day filled with learning and laughter, the Carver campers left the field with new skills, newfound friendships, and a greater appreciation for lacrosse. This lacrosse lesson became an unforgettable experience that enriched the lives of all involved, thanks to Max's kindness and enthusiasm.

In the spirit of giving and community, Max Kim has demonstrated the powerful impact of volunteerism and the joy of sharing one's passions with others. Carver is grateful for his contribution and looks forward to more opportunities to engage students with activities that promote learning, growth, and camaraderie.

Empowering Youth: Carver's Diverse Summer Programs Engage 1,400 Children Across 15 Enrichment Opportunities

The excitement is palpable as some 1,400 children aged 5 to 15 experience a summer of discovery, growth, and adventure through Carver's extensive array of 15 summer programs. Spanning across Norwalk, these programs are designed to offer enriching and enjoyable experiences for Norwalk students, ensuring a summer well-spent.

The summer programs are crafted to balance education and recreation, making learning fun and integral to the summer. From engaging field trips to wellness and recreational activities, swimming, and project-based, hands-on, personalized learning, these programs aim to prepare students for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.

A significant focus of these programs is helping students transition smoothly into new academic environments. The summer transition programs are specially designed for incoming 6th—and 9th-grade students, providing them with the tools they need to navigate Norwalk’s four middle schools and three high schools successfully. These programs include individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment activities, and complimentary transportation, making it easier for working families to ensure their children are engaged and learning throughout the summer.

Students are not just learning academically but also developing essential life skills. Incoming 9th-graders, for example, learn how to read transcripts, understand graduation requirements, earn course credits, and start planning their potential career paths. Utilizing Naviance/Family Connection, they develop individualized Student Success Plans, setting them up for future success.

For younger students, the AFTER THE SUMMER BELL program offers a seamless extension of the NPS Summer School, providing an afternoon filled with enriching activities. Similarly, the AFTER THE BELL ENRICHMENT program caters to children aged 5-11, running from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with an extended day option until 5:30 p.m. at Naramake Elementary School. Activities range from science and art to marine science, engineering, social-emotional learning, and weekly field trips, ensuring a well-rounded and stimulating summer experience.

The Carver Community Center and SoNo Camp are more than places for children to spend their summer; they are environments where students can grow, explore new interests, and build lasting friendships. With the support of dedicated staff and various engaging activities, every child is set to have a summer filled with memorable experiences and valuable learning opportunities.

Celebrate the End of Summer at Norwalk Teens Night Out! Free Mini Golf, Food Trucks & Ice Cream for High Schoolers on August 23rd!

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.