Carver’s 2024-2025 School Year Before- and After-School Programs: Engaging Students Across Norwalk, Bridgeport, and Beyond

Carver’s 2024-2025 school year is off to a strong start, with 1,459 students enrolled in more than 50 before- and after-school programs across Norwalk, Bridgeport, and beyond. Our programs, offered at all K-12 public schools in Norwalk, Side by Side Charter School, Classical Studies Magnet Academy in Bridgeport, Naugatuck High School, Stamford High School, and the Carver Community Center, are designed to align with in-school curricula and are led by each school's certified daytime teachers. This approach ensures a seamless learning experience for students, helping them progress academically and develop socio-emotional skills. With a student-to-adult ratio of 10:1 and 510 year-round staff, including 486 part-time staff, most being certified teachers, Carver remains committed to providing personalized attention and support.

Carver’s programs emphasize project-based learning in STEAM subjects, recreational and cultural activities, and socio-emotional learning (SEL). These elements enhance academic achievement, foster critical thinking, and improve school engagement. By tailoring our programs to each school and community, we create environments where students feel supported and empowered. We also provide free transportation to remove barriers to participation, ensuring that students have access to enriching activities that foster academic success and personal growth.

Looking ahead, we are raising funds to provide scholarships for deserving students and planning our 2025 Spring College Tour, including visits to schools in Tennessee and Alabama. This tour is vital to Carver's commitment to preparing students for college and beyond, helping them envision a bright future through exposure to higher education opportunities. With a focus on educational equity and excellence, Carver continues to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students and their families.

Carver Welcomes Global Alumni Relations Expert Jillian Kaminski to Its Board of Directors

Carver is thrilled to welcome Jillian Kaminski, the Global Head of Alumni Relations at BlackRock, to its Board of Directors.

Jillian has a wealth of corporate experience, including launching BlackRock’s official alumni relations initiative. In her role, Jillian manages a global network of tens of thousands of BlackRock alumni, creating programs and events that foster meaningful connections and generate lasting value for the firm’s employees and alumni.

Jillian is passionate about creating relationships that enrich personal and professional experiences. Her leadership is driven by the desire to celebrate and engage with the people who make organizations like BlackRock and Carver unique.

As an internationally sought-after speaker on corporate alumni programming, Jillian’s insights and expertise are invaluable assets to Carver’s Board. We look forward to her guidance in overall board governance and as we strengthen our own alumni engagement efforts, ensuring that Carver’s graduates continue to feel connected, supported, and inspired throughout their life journeys.

Carver is confident that Jillian’s experience and enthusiasm will be instrumental in shaping many new initiatives for our community. We are excited to benefit from her visionary leadership and look forward to the impact she will have on our future growth.

Welcome, Jillian Kaminski, to the Carver family!

The Center for Global Studies and P-Tech Norwalk Among Top 50 High Schools in Connecticut, According to Niche.com Rankings

In an exciting development for Norwalk’s educational community, The Center for Global Studies (#7) and P-Tech Norwalk (#42) have been ranked among the top 50 high schools in Connecticut, according to a new educational ranking company Niche.com report. The Center for Global Studies received an overall grade of A+, while P-Tech Norwalk earned an impressive A-.

Niche.com, known for its comprehensive school evaluations, takes a unique approach to rankings. In its 10th year, Niche.com's rankings stand out from other rating systems that rely almost exclusively on test scores and academic performance. In addition to these metrics, Niche incorporates input from students, alumni, and parents and data from the U.S. Department of Education to evaluate schools' teachers, resources, and facilities.

The Center for Global Studies’ outstanding A+ rating highlights the school’s exceptional academic and cultural offerings. At the same time, P-Tech Norwalk's A- showcases its commitment to providing a solid foundation in technical education and career preparation.

Both schools have cemented their reputations as leading educational institutions in the state, providing students with the resources and opportunities to thrive in an ever-changing world. The rankings affirm that Norwalk continues to offer students access to some of Connecticut's finest public school programs, contributing to academic excellence and future success.

The 2025 Best Public High Schools in America ranking, released earlier this week, shows the nation's best public high schools, including magnet and charter schools.

Celebrating Our Principals: The Heart of Norwalk Public Schools and Carver's Success During National Principals Month!

Click on this image to watch profiles of each NPS principal on YouTube

As we celebrate National Principals Month, the Carver community would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the exceptional principals of Norwalk Public Schools. Your leadership, tireless dedication, and sincere commitment to creating a supportive and enriching school environment have profoundly impacted our students, teachers, and staff.

Each principal plays a vital role in shaping the day-to-day success of their schools and the flourishing of Carver’s out-of-school-time programs. Whether it's helping to guide students as they transition to middle or high school or working alongside Carver to ensure our STEAM, literacy, and wellness initiatives are tailored to meet each school's unique needs, you are essential partners in everything we do.

Thank you for your tireless efforts, passion for education, and steadfast commitment to fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and thriving school community. The Carver family is grateful for your leadership and looks forward to many more years of collaboration as we continue to support Norwalk’s youth together. Happy National Principals Month!

Carver Summer 2024 Recap: A Summer of Growth, Exploration, and New Beginnings

Click here to see a story about our Summer Transition Program for rising 6th graders at Roton Middle School

This past summer, Carver engaged 1,159 students aged pre-K to 15 across 15 vibrant Norwalk and Bridgeport programs. These programs were designed to combine education with recreation, ensuring that learning remained fun while setting students up for a successful academic year ahead. From captivating field trips to wellness activities, swimming, and hands-on project-based learning, students enjoyed an enriching and adventurous summer.

A cornerstone of the summer experience was the focus on helping students transition smoothly into new academic environments, especially through transition programs for rising 6th and 9th graders. These programs provided individualized instruction, parental involvement, small group learning experiences, diverse enrichment activities, and even free transportation for working families.

A special highlight of the summer was The Ecology School experience in Maine, where 75 rising 6th, 7th, and 8th graders from Carver participated in immersive nature exploration at the beautiful River Bend Farm. Carver had three cohorts attend the Ecology School for the first time, marking a significant milestone in its outdoor learning journey.

Click here to read about the excitement 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.

Bridgeport Public Schools asked Carver to expand its program to help young learners transition smoothly into their first year. Carver accepted the challenge and delivered Carver’s tested academic and social-emotional skill development. Certified teachers and paraprofessionals led the program expansion into four Bridgeport elementary schools, ensuring children entered kindergarten with confidence and essential foundational skills.

As Carver looks ahead to the 2024-2025 school year, the impact of this summer’s programs will be felt across classrooms, providing students with the tools they need for lifelong success.

Westport Connections Party Ignites Community Support for Carver Youth at STEAM Enrichment Social

Max Kim, Ben Zuckerman, Jen McPartlin, Andrea Moore, Eve Gianni, Inwha Huh, Nikki LaFaye, Nadine Tanen, Mark Gilrain, Mindi Lund, Kimberly Konstant, Grace Almeida, Livia Orenstein, Anya Gianni Corio

On Friday, September 27, 2024, the Westport Connections Party, dubbed the "STEAM Enrichment Social," brought together an extraordinary blend of art, community, and charitable giving at Clarendon Fine Art Gallery. The evening was warm and exciting as new and old friends came together to raise vital funds and awareness for The Carver.

Sponsored by a wide array of generous organizations including Amazing Grace (NYC), bird, Bridgewater Chocolate, Clarendon Fine Art Gallery, Gault Family Companies, imageworks, Kindred Spirits & Wine, LANDTECH, and the post, the event radiated creativity and collaboration. The gallery provided a fitting backdrop for the evening, with its elegant art displays accentuating the event's focus on the enrichment of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Mathematics) education.

Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin and Carver alumna Damaly Mendez

We are deeply grateful to the dedicated and visionary Connections Party Committee members: Inwha & Robert Kim, Andrea & David Moore, Eve Gianni, Mark Gilrain, Kimberly Konstant, Mindi Lund, Deb Placey, and Nadine Tanen. Their commitment, creativity, and generosity made this event a tremendous success.

A special note of thanks also goes out to our hardworking Student Volunteers—Grace Almeida, Anya Gianni Corio, Max Kim, Livia Orenstein, and Ben Zuckerman—who assisted in making the event seamless. Members of the National Charity League Westport Chapter also participated.

The evening also featured heartfelt remarks from inspiring Carver students. Cecilia Adriana Garcia, a rising 9th grader, shared her experiences in Carver’s Summer Transition Program. She highlighted the joy she found in creating art at The Norwalk Art Space, demonstrating how Carver enriches the lives of young learners through both academic and creative opportunities.

Deborah Hammerskjold, Mindi Lund, Jen Capelo, Brooke Sorensen, Inwha Huh, Drew Seath

Damaly Mendez, a Carver alumna and current sophomore at Quinnipiac University, reflected on her journey through Carver's Youth Development Program and the profound impact it had on her college success. She credited Carver with organizing multiple paid internships for her at Norwalk Hospital, which inspired her to pursue a nursing degree.

We are also thankful for the participation of Carver board members Philip Butterfield, Deborah Brennan, CEO Novelette Peterkin, Drew Seath, and Brooke Sorensen, who actively engaged with the guests throughout the evening.

The Westport Connections Party celebrated what is possible when a community comes together to support its youth. Together, we are helping to shape brighter futures for Norwalk’s young people.

2024 Rowayton Connections Party: A Night of Generosity, Inspiration, and Community

Carver student John Akbar sharing his story with the Rowayton Connections party guests

Yesterday evening, the 2024 Rowayton Connections Party at the scenic Norwalk Yacht Club, graciously sponsored by The Beinfield Team at Compass, raised more than $25,000 for vital Carver programs. The night was filled with inspiration and generosity. Lock City Brewery was the event beverage sponsor.

Nestled in Wilson Cove and surrounded by Sheffield Island, Tavern Island, and Bell Island, the Norwalk Yacht Club provided a perfect setting when weather prevented Zoe and K.C. Hamann from hosting the event in their nearby home as planned.

Co-Chair Zoe Hamann opened the evening by welcoming guests and introducing Novelette, Carver’s CEO, who was honored for her 20 years of dedicated service. Novelette’s leadership has been central to Carver’s impact on countless young lives, and the guests’ recognition was heartfelt. Zoe expressed how near and dear Carver is to her family, as she has children in Rowayton’s After the Bell program at Rowayton Elementary School, like other families in attendance.

Next to speak was Ralph Valezisi, Assistant Superintendent for Digital Learning and Innovation for Norwalk Public Schools. Ralph expressed his deep admiration for Carver’s programs, stating that no model has proven as effective as Carver’s programming in transforming students' lives in all his years. He praised Novelette for her strategic partnerships and leadership, highlighting the far-reaching influence of her and Carver's work.

The evening's highlight was hearing from Carver student John Akbar, who shared his moving story as an immigrant overcoming social insecurities. John eloquently spoke of how Carver has provided him with mentors, college tours, his first summer job as a counselor, and even a paid internship. His testimony of personal growth, opportunity, and mentorship left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance.

Iman LaBorde, a Carver alumna and now a full-time Carver Future Readiness Coordinator, then spoke about the full circle moment she had visiting her alma mater, Virginia State University, during the 2024 Spring College Tour with Carver high school students.

The event committee's dedication made this event possible. Co-Chair Liz Beinfield concluded the evening by emphasizing the importance of Carver’s work.

Event Committee Members:

• Co-Chairs: Zoe Hamann & Liz Beinfield

• Jenny Friedman & Scott Petropoulos

• Emily & Rob Grabowski

• K.C. Hamann

• Megan & Paul Hudson

• Julia & JD Massengill

• Martha & Andy Meyerson

• Carolyn & Kevin Nally

• Amanda Northrop

• Hannah & Will Robertson

• Jennifer & Andrew Ryan

• Kim & Drew Seath

• Amy & Rob Strickland

The 2024 Rowayton Connections Party proved to be yet another successful evening, showcasing the strength of the community, the generosity of Carver’s supporters, and the life-changing impact of The Carver’s work.

Carver Community Center Secures $3.5 Million in State Funding for Crucial Renovations

As reported in The Hour, The Carver secured $3.5 million in state funding to continue the much-needed renovations of the Carver Community Center. This substantial support is made possible thanks to the efforts of Senator Bob Duff, the Norwalk Delegation, and Connecticut’s Community Investment Fund's board members, who wholeheartedly endorsed our proposal.

This new funding is a significant milestone in improving the Carver Community Center. Earlier this year, in April, Carver broke ground on a $1.7 million expansion, resulting in a two-story teen center adjacent to the gymnasium. Now, with an additional $3.5 million, the entire center will undergo a comprehensive transformation that will bring the building up to code and increase its footprint and accessibility. Plans include the installation of an elevator and constructing a new secure entrance, ensuring the safety and comfort of all who enter.

Built in 1975, the Carver Community Center has long served as a cornerstone for Norwalk's youth and the wider community. These critical renovations will ensure that it continues providing a safe and welcoming space for future generations.

The Carver community is deeply grateful for Senator Duff’s longstanding leadership and for the Norwalk Delegation’s support of important initiatives that improve the lives of all Nowalkers. This investment will enhance Carver’s ability to foster growth, learning, and leadership among Norwalk's youth, reinforcing the center's legacy as a vital hub for education and community engagement.

Stay tuned for more updates as these exciting developments progress!

Carver Alumna and Board Member Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell Named 2024 CBCF POWER 100 Honoree

Carver is proud to announce that Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell, Assistant Attorney General for the State of Connecticut and valued member of our Board of Directors, has been named a 2024 Congressional Black Caucus Foundation (CBCF) POWER 100 Honoree. This prestigious recognition celebrates the accomplishments of dynamic leaders in law, politics, business, and medicine.

Ms. Farnell's extraordinary contributions to the field of law and her ongoing commitment to justice and equity have rightfully earned her a place on this esteemed list.

Diaghilev Lubin-Farnell standing with Novelette at New England Law’s graduation ceremony

The CBCF Annual Legislative Conference is a highlight event hosted by the National Bar Association Young Lawyers Division and the Washington Bar Association Young Lawyers Division. It is a time for thought leaders and rising stars to gather, share their achievements, and collectively inspire others toward greater success.

Ms. Farnell’s journey to this moment has been remarkable. Carver CEO Novelette Peterkin fondly remembers attending her graduations from Clark Atlanta University and New England Law in Boston.

During Novelette's tenure as CEO, Diaghilev was among the first students to graduate from college. This moment symbolized Carver's commitment to fostering academic success and Ms. Farnell’s determination to excel.

At Carver, we are honored to witness Diaghilev's continued impact in her field and are deeply grateful for her leadership on our Board. Her recognition as a CBCF POWER 100 Honoree is a testament to her brilliance and reflects the strong values and dedication we strive to instill in all our students.

Congratulations, Diaghilev! Your Carver family is incredibly proud of you.

Carver’s New Teen Center and Kitchen Renovations Bring Hope and Opportunity to Norwalk’s Youth

Exciting progress is being made at the Carver Community Center as we move forward with a total renovation designed to uplift and support the Norwalk community. At the heart of this transformation is our newly constructed two-story Teen Center, which is poised to become a beacon of hope and opportunity for local teenagers in a few more weeks.

The Teen Center, a stunning addition to the existing Carver Community Center, is connected through interior windows that offer a view of the Richard Whitcomb Gymnasium. This modern design element reflects the transparency and openness that Carver seeks to embody—creating a physical space where Norwalk's youth can thrive in an environment built for their success.

With a wealth of comprehensive facilities and resources, the Teen Center will serve as the central hub for educational, recreational, and social activities. It is designed to nurture holistic youth development, providing an inclusive space where teenagers can learn, play, and build meaningful relationships. More than just a building, the Teen Center represents Carver’s dedication to strengthening community bonds and ensuring a bright future for Norwalk’s young people.

The kitchen renovations at the Carver Community Center have been completed in tandem with the new Teen Center’s construction, which is still underway. These updates enhance our ability to serve nutritious meals to community members, support our wellness initiatives, and create a vibrant gathering place for events and programs.

These renovations are just the beginning of the exciting changes happening at Carver. We are deeply committed to the holistic revitalization of the community center and its role as a safe, enriching environment for all who walk through our doors.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to build a brighter, more inclusive future for Norwalk’s youth and families!