06880 Blog Highlights Carver’s Westport Connections Party at Clarendon Fine Art

Click on this image to RSVP

06880, Westport's leading community blog, is promoting an exciting upcoming event that promises to connect Westport residents with Carver's important work. On Friday, September 27, at 6 p.m., a Carver committee of wonderful volunteers and sponsors will host the Westport Connections Party at Clarendon Fine Art, 22 Main Street, Westport. You can RSVP here.

The event, highlighted by 06880, aims to introduce Carver to a broader audience in Westport and build awareness around the organization’s impactful educational programs. Carver operates over 60 before-school, after-school, summer, and community programs across Norwalk, Bridgeport, Stamford, and Naugatuck, serving nearly 3,000 students annually.

Carver’s programs boast an impressive 100% on-time high school graduation rate, with nearly all of its students becoming first-generation college students. While many in Westport may be unfamiliar with Carver, 06880 is helping spread the word, encouraging residents to attend this special event and support the organization's work.

The evening will feature inspiring stories from Carver students, who will share their personal journeys of growth and academic achievement. Westport residents will hear firsthand how Carver’s programs transform lives and prepare students for bright futures.

Local businesses, including Bird, Clarendon, LandTech, The Post, and Amazing Graze, are sponsoring the event, demonstrating Westport's commitment to expanding Carver's support base and ensuring its continued success.

Carver is looking to build connections with the Westport community through financial support and volunteer involvement. The Westport Connections Party is a perfect opportunity to learn more about this remarkable nonprofit and its life-changing work.

Be sure to check out 06880’s feature and mark your calendars for Friday, September 27, to participate in this impactful evening.

Date: Friday, September 27
Time: 6:00 PM
Location: Clarendon Fine Art, 22 Main Street, Westport

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month: Honoring the Contributions and Legacy of Hispanic and Latino Communities

Today marks the beginning of Hispanic Heritage Month! From September 15 through October 15, we celebrate the unique history, diverse cultures, beautiful traditions, and rich contributions of Hispanic Americans whose roots trace back to Spain, Mexico, Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and Central and South America.

At Carver, 54% of our students are Hispanic or Latino, and the number continues to grow each year, reflecting our community's increasing diversity and vitality.

Hispanic Heritage Month was officially enacted into law in August 1988. This month-long observance recognizes the many Central American countries that achieved independence in September and October, including Costa Rica, Guatemala, and Honduras. This year’s theme, “Pioneers of Change: Shaping the Future Together,” highlights the pivotal role Hispanic and Latino communities have played—and continue to play—in shaping our society.

This month offers a valuable opportunity to reflect on the incredible impact that Latinas and Latinos have had on the United States for generations. The Latino presence in America spans centuries, even predating Spain’s colonization of regions that are now part of the U.S. Hispanic Americans have been integral in shaping our nation since the Revolutionary War. Through historical events like the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Treaty of Paris, the United States gained territories in the Southwest and Puerto Rico, further expanding the Hispanic-American presence within our country.

Today, the Hispanic or Latino population in the United States is over 60 million, making up 18.9% of the total population. This vibrant community is a crucial contributor to the U.S. economy and culture—whether as entrepreneurs, artists, scientists, athletes, or public servants, Latinos enrich every facet of American life.

In Norwalk, Connecticut, where Carver proudly serves students, the Hispanic or Latino population makes up approximately 28.5% of the city's population. This community has grown steadily, enriching Norwalk's cultural and economic diversity.

But what is the difference between "Hispanic" and "Latino"? While these terms are often used interchangeably, they have distinct meanings. "Hispanic" refers to individuals connected to Spain or the Spanish language. In contrast, "Latino" refers to people with cultural or ancestral ties to Latin America or the Caribbean. "Latino" also includes Black, Indigenous, Asian, and other heritages alongside European ancestry.

As we embark on this month of celebration, let’s take the time to learn, reflect, and honor the lasting contributions of Hispanic and Latino pioneers who have shaped our history and are continuing to shape our future.

Norwalk Public Schools’ Portrait of a Graduate: A Collaborative Vision for Future-Ready Students, Empowered by Carver's Commitment

In an ever-evolving world, the education landscape must keep pace, ensuring that students have the skills and mindsets necessary for success beyond high school. As The Hour reports, Norwalk Public Schools has embraced this challenge by creating the Portrait of a Graduate. This collective vision captures our community's hopes, aspirations, and dreams for Norwalk’s young people. This initiative, a true embodiment of community collaboration, defines every student's essential competencies to be Future Ready.

At Carver, we have always believed in the power of nurturing the whole student, and our high school counselors, dedicated to the success of Carver after-school students, embody this philosophy. Our methodology aligns seamlessly with the Portrait of a Graduate's core competencies, as we have long prioritized developing academic skills and the social-emotional growth essential for life beyond the classroom.

The Collaborative Journey

Gradation at Brien McMahon High School

The journey to creating the Portrait of a Graduate was a comprehensive and inclusive process, initiated in December 2023 when a Task Force was formed. This diverse group included Cabinet Members, Norwalk Public Schools staff, community members, and Board of Education members, all working together to draft the initial vision. But this was only the beginning.

Understanding the importance of community input, Norwalk Public Schools reached out to key stakeholders to refine and perfect the Portrait. Over 4,060 students from grades 6-12 contributed their insights through a feedback survey, while another 470 responses were gathered from staff members, families, and community members. Additionally, focus groups involving over 180 participants further enriched the process, ensuring that the final Portrait truly reflects our community's values and beliefs.

A Research-Backed Vision

Throughout this development process, Norwalk Public Schools consulted child development research, literature on essential life skills for post-high school success, social-emotional learning frameworks, and academic standards. Collaborating with experts and other school districts, the task force ensured that the Portrait of a Graduate is robust and evidence-based.

Aligning with Carver’s Mission

Carver's commitment to student success is deeply intertwined with the competencies outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate. Our programs have long emphasized academic achievement and the cultivation of critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience—key components of the Portrait.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators (full-time high school counselors) work closely with Carver after-school students, providing individualized support, paid internships, and much else that empowers them to navigate the challenges of high school and life beyond. By fostering these essential skills and mindsets, we prepare our students for graduation day and a lifetime of success and fulfillment.

Looking Ahead

The Portrait of a Graduate guides all efforts to prepare students for life beyond high school. It is a vision rooted in our community's collective wisdom and reflects our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

At Carver, we are proud to be part of this journey. We will continue to align our programs with the Portrait of a Graduate, ensuring that every student we serve is equipped to meet future demands with confidence and skill.

Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Norwalk's young people—one where they are truly Future Ready.

Carver’s Commitment to ‘Lead the World’: How We’re Aligning with the U.S. Department of Education’s Vision for Academic Excellence and Global Competitiveness

“The Carver equips all learners for global competitiveness by leading strategic partnerships with schools and communities that advance excellence and growth opportunities.

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— The Carver Mission Statement

The U.S. Department of Education unveiled an ambitious new report, Lead the World, outlining a comprehensive plan to ensure all students receive the quality education necessary to fulfill their potential and contribute to “…a globally competitive society.” At the heart of this initiative are key focus areas such as achieving academic excellence, improving learning conditions, enhancing mental health support, creating pathways for global engagement, and making college more affordable and accessible.

At Carver, we share this vision and are already taking significant steps to contribute to its fulfillment. For decades, Carver has been a cornerstone in the community, offering after-school and summer programs that support students who need it most. Our commitment to academic excellence is evident in our tailored tutoring and enrichment programs that address learning gaps and enhance student performance, particularly in underserved communities.

Recognizing the importance of mental health and learning conditions, Carver integrates social-emotional learning into all our programs, ensuring that students excel academically and develop resilience and well-being. We provide safe and supportive environments where students can thrive, reinforced by a dedicated team of educators and mentors.

In line with the report’s call for global engagement and multilingualism, Carver’s programs include exposure to diverse cultures and languages, preparing students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world. Our college readiness initiatives align with the Department’s goals, offering paid internships, college tours, and guidance and resources to make higher education accessible and achievable for all our students.

The Lead the World report emphasizes the need for systemic change in education, and Carver is proud to be part of this transformative effort. By enhancing educator support, diversifying our teaching staff, and aligning our goals with national strategies, we are helping to prepare the next generation for global competitiveness and success.

As we continue to serve the community, Carver remains committed to contributing to the fulfillment of the U.S. Department of Education’s vision. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to lead the world.

NOTE: Carver has been a proud and consistent recipient of the Nita M. Lowey 21st Century Community Learning Centers (21st CCLC) grants for years. This initiative is the only federal funding source supporting local after-school, before-school, and summer learning programs. Serving over 1.5 million youth and their families, 21st CCLC grants are awarded by state education agencies, with funds allocated based on each state's share of Title I funding for low-income students. These grants support local schools and community-based organizations, like Carver, in providing students with critical after-school and summer learning programs. The 21st CCLC program was reauthorized in 2015 as part of the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA).

Capturing the Final Days of Summer at Roton Middle School's Transition Program for Rising 6th Graders

As the summer ended, so did the enriching Summer Transition Program for rising 6th graders at Roton Middle School. Under the leadership of Dean Vaccaro, an accomplished National Board Certified Teacher, the program successfully prepared students for the exciting new chapter in middle school. Dean Vaccaro, who serves as an 8th Grade U.S. History Teacher, 8th Grade Leader, and Director of the R.A.M.S. (Carver) Afterschool Program at Roton, ensured that the students had an engaging and educational experience throughout the summer.

The program, replicated across Norwalk's four public middle schools, focused on easing the transition to middle school by offering individualized instruction, STEAM activities, and the opportunity for students to familiarize themselves with their new surroundings, classmates, and teachers. Roton’s students embraced the chance to learn, grow, and make lasting memories.

Here’s a glimpse into the program's final days, where students participated in hands-on projects, creative team-building activities, STEM challenges, and many wellness and recreation experiences. From crafting and problem-solving to outdoor fun, the Summer Transition Program was a fantastic journey of learning and bonding.

This collection of moments below captures the spirit of community and curiosity that Roton’s rising 6th graders brought to their summer. They include Curious Creatures, Roton’s original “Beach Olympics,” Science Projects, Wacky Hat Wednesday, The Grit Ninja (outdoors), Laser Tag, and so much more!

We look forward to seeing these students thrive as they begin this exciting new chapter in their academic journey this school year.

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

Moffly Magazine Spotlights Carver’s Annual Child of America Gala with Full-Page Feature in Latest Issue

Click here to go to the Child of America 2024 event page and see all the photos!

A Heartfelt Thanks to LIUNA Local 146: Empowering Carver Kids with Back-to-School Essentials

At Carver, we are committed to providing our students with the tools and resources they need to succeed, both in and out of the classroom. This commitment was recently bolstered by an incredibly generous act of community support from the Laborers' International Union of North America (LIUNA) Local Union 146.

Organized by Michael K. London, Business Manager of LIUNA Local 146, the union spearheaded a back-to-school backpack drive for Carver students, ensuring that each child was well-prepared for school. The drive culminated in a heartwarming event at the Carver Community Center, where union members, accompanied by Norwalk Mayor Rilling, personally delivered the backpacks to our students.

"We appreciate the partnership for allowing us to participate and give back to the community!” said Michael K. London, underscoring the deep sense of community spirit that drives LIUNA’s efforts.

The LIUNA Legacy

The Laborers' International Union of North America has a long and proud history dating back to its formation in 1903. With approximately 500,000 members across the United States and Canada, LIUNA is a cornerstone of community development. LIUNA members are skilled and experienced in various industries, from building vital infrastructure like roads, bridges, and schools to working in energy sectors, public services, and beyond. Their commitment to excellence and safety in their work is matched only by their dedication to supporting the communities they help build.

A Special Thanks from Carver

We thank LIUNA Local Union 146 for their generosity and commitment to our community. This backpack drive is a powerful symbol of support and solidarity with the youth of Norwalk. For our students, these backpacks represent the encouragement and care from an organization that truly values their future.

We would also like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Mayor Rilling for joining us in this meaningful event and for his continuous support of Carver’s mission. The presence of local leadership at such events reinforces the importance of community unity in fostering a nurturing environment for our children.

Moving Forward Together

As we gear up for another school year, we do so with renewed energy and optimism, largely thanks to the support of organizations like LIUNA. Their contribution will have a lasting impact on the lives of our students, helping them start the school year with confidence and pride.

At Carver, with partners like LIUNA Local 146, we are confident that our students are well-equipped to reach their full potential. Thank you, LIUNA, for standing with us and helping empower the next generation of leaders in Norwalk.

Together, we continue to build a brighter future for all.

News from The Hour: First Day Back is Filled with Laughter, Music, and Excitement!

This and the photos below were taken by Tyler Sizemore/Hearst Connecticut Media

Here is The Hour article by Kalleen Rose Ozanic, Staff Writer.

The first day of school at Roton Middle School in Norwalk was "exciting," students, parents, and teachers kicked off the new academic year with energy and enthusiasm.

Highland Avenue, which houses Brien McMahon High School, Brookside Elementary, and Roton Middle School, was bustling with first-day-of-school traffic as families dropped off their children.

Hundreds of eager students gathered outside Roton, their laughter and chatter mixing with the sounds of Dua Lipa's "Don’t Start Now" and American Authors' "Best Day of My Life." The scene was a joyful reunion of friends, setting a positive tone for the year ahead.

Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, school administrators, and Superintendent Alexandra Estrella welcomed students and parents, emphasizing the district's commitment to safety and education. Principal Ed Singleton echoed this sentiment, highlighting the school's dedication to creating a warm, welcoming environment where every student can thrive.

Superintendent Estrella also expressed excitement about the district's "Portrait of a Graduate" initiative, which focuses on developing students' critical thinking and problem-solving skills—traits that will prepare them for real-world challenges.

Norwalk Public Schools’ Portrait of a Graduate: A Collaborative Vision for Future-Ready Students, Empowered by Carver's Commitment

In an ever-evolving world, the education landscape must keep pace, ensuring that students have the skills and mindsets necessary for success beyond high school. As The Hour reports, Norwalk Public Schools has embraced this challenge by creating the Portrait of a Graduate. This collective vision captures our community's hopes, aspirations, and dreams for Norwalk’s young people. This initiative, a true embodiment of community collaboration, defines every student's essential competencies to be Future Ready.

At Carver, we have always believed in the power of nurturing the whole student, and our high school counselors, dedicated to the success of Carver after-school students, embody this philosophy. Our methodology aligns seamlessly with the Portrait of a Graduate's core competencies, as we have long prioritized developing academic skills and the social-emotional growth essential for life beyond the classroom.

The Collaborative Journey

Gradation at Brien McMahon High School

The journey to creating the Portrait of a Graduate was a comprehensive and inclusive process, initiated in December 2023 when a Task Force was formed. This diverse group included Cabinet Members, Norwalk Public Schools staff, community members, and Board of Education members, all working together to draft the initial vision. But this was only the beginning.

Understanding the importance of community input, Norwalk Public Schools reached out to key stakeholders to refine and perfect the Portrait. Over 4,060 students from grades 6-12 contributed their insights through a feedback survey, while another 470 responses were gathered from staff members, families, and community members. Additionally, focus groups involving over 180 participants further enriched the process, ensuring that the final Portrait truly reflects our community's values and beliefs.

A Research-Backed Vision

Throughout this development process, Norwalk Public Schools consulted child development research, literature on essential life skills for post-high school success, social-emotional learning frameworks, and academic standards. Collaborating with experts and other school districts, the task force ensured that the Portrait of a Graduate is robust and evidence-based.

Aligning with Carver’s Mission

Carver's commitment to student success is deeply intertwined with the competencies outlined in the Portrait of a Graduate. Our programs have long emphasized academic achievement and the cultivation of critical thinking, collaboration, adaptability, and resilience—key components of the Portrait.

Carver Future Readiness Coordinators (full-time high school counselors) work closely with Carver after-school students, providing individualized support, paid internships, and much else that empowers them to navigate the challenges of high school and life beyond. By fostering these essential skills and mindsets, we prepare our students for graduation day and a lifetime of success and fulfillment.

Looking Ahead

The Portrait of a Graduate guides all efforts to prepare students for life beyond high school. It is a vision rooted in our community's collective wisdom and reflects our shared commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

At Carver, we are proud to be part of this journey. We will continue to align our programs with the Portrait of a Graduate, ensuring that every student we serve is equipped to meet future demands with confidence and skill.

Together, we are shaping a brighter future for Norwalk's young people—one where they are truly Future Ready.