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Norwalk’s New Arts and Cultural District Designation Amplifies Carver’s Commitment to STEAM Education

Norwalk recently celebrated its new status as an Arts and Cultural District, awarded by the Connecticut Office of the Arts. This designation, highlighted by a community celebration in Mathews Park, marks a pivotal recognition of Norwalk’s vibrant creative landscape. The event also featured unveiling an expansive mural that spans over 1,000 feet along a retaining wall near Interstate 95, welcoming visitors with colorful depictions of animals chosen by residents in a summer survey. The mural, painted by local artists Sonny Behan and Ernesto Maranje with assistance from five other artists, has transformed the space into a testament to Norwalk’s unique artistic spirit.

As Lieutenant Governor Susan Bysiewicz, city officials, and community members gathered to celebrate, the spotlight on Norwalk’s creative environment reinforced the value of Carver’s STEAM programming. By weaving arts education into its Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) offerings, Carver nurtures creative expression alongside academic development for Norwalk’s youth. Through hands-on learning, Carver’s students engage with the arts in ways that stimulate imagination, problem-solving, and critical thinking—skills that will shape their futures and enhance their contributions to a culturally rich community.

Carver’s alignment with Norwalk’s dedication to arts and culture demonstrates the importance of fostering artistic appreciation from a young age. Norwalk’s new Arts and Cultural District designation underscores the community’s collective commitment to creativity and further inspires Carver’s students. With Carver’s longtime and nearby program partner Norwalk Arts Space and the city’s array of galleries, theaters, and creative businesses, Carver’s students experience firsthand the influence of art in their community, learning that the arts are not only an expression but a vital part of community identity.

Norwalk Art Space

Commenting on the mural, Common Council member Josh Goldstein said, " The wall is now transformed and emblematic of what makes Norwalk special. It’s colorful and welcoming, thoughtful, and exciting.” This sentiment echoes the values Carver seeks to instill in students through its STEAM programming: creativity, curiosity, and community engagement.

In Norwalk, art is not just seen—it’s experienced, shared, and celebrated. This Arts and Cultural District designation strengthens the city’s commitment to nurturing a supportive environment for artists and educators, encouraging Carver’s students and the larger community to explore, innovate, and contribute to the vibrant artistic culture that makes Norwalk a truly inspiring place to live and learn.

Fall Fun at Carver Community Center: Crafts, Snacks, and Games with NCL-Westport Volunteers!

Carver Community Center recently celebrated fall with an unforgettable event for our students. The afternoon was filled with crafts, seasonal snacks, and interactive games. The highlight of this year’s gathering was the support and participation of volunteer mothers and daughters from the National Charity League (NCL)—Westport Chapter, who donated snacks, provided craft materials, and helped lead activities throughout the day.

Organized by Carver’s NCL Liaison, Andreina Bauer, and her daughter, Talia, the NCL-Westport team brought extra warmth and enthusiasm to the event. With the help of dedicated volunteers like Dori Nissenson, her daughters Avery and Shea Nissenson, and Bridget Menninger and Maggie Wiele, who are members of the Class of 2025, the event offered a memorable experience for every student.

Students rotated through several activity stations, beginning with a craft station with fall-themed supplies for creating colorful decorations and keepsakes. Under the guidance of the NCL volunteers, students expressed their creativity, building confidence as they brought their ideas to life. At the snack station, students enjoyed treats provided by the NCL team, including a selection of seasonal favorites that paired perfectly with the fall ambiance. From apple snacks to pumpkin treats, there was something delicious for everyone to enjoy.

The games station was a hotspot of laughter and teamwork, with various games designed to keep everyone energized and entertained. The students had a fantastic time, encouraged by the enthusiastic NCL-Westport volunteers who joined in the fun and kept spirits high.

Events like this, enhanced by the support of Carver’s partners and volunteers, help create lasting memories and foster a sense of community and belonging. Carver is deeply grateful to the NCL-Westport Chapter for their generous contributions and commitment to making this fall celebration a success.

Thank you to all who made this event possible. As the holiday season approaches, we look forward to more joyful gatherings that bring our community closer together!

State Bond Commission Approves $3.5 Million for Carver Community Center's Vital Renovations and Expansion

Today marks a significant milestone for the Carver Community Center. In a special meeting at the Legislative Office Building, the State Bond Commission formally approved a $3.5 million state funding commitment for the center's continued renovations. During the meeting, Governor Ned Lamont outlined his spending priorities for the commission, including 43 agenda items. Among these, Carver's support is a crucial investment in the community's future.

This achievement is the culmination of efforts by Senator Bob Duff, the Norwalk Delegation, and the Connecticut Community Investment Fund's members, who advocated for Carver’s proposal. This funding will ensure that the center, which has been a beacon of hope and service for many, undergoes transformative improvements.

Earlier this year, Carver initiated a $1.7 million expansion in April, including constructing a two-story teen center adjacent to the gymnasium. With the added $3.5 million, the center will experience a comprehensive overhaul. The building will be brought up to code, its footprint expanded, and accessibility improved by installing an elevator. Additionally, a new secure entrance will enhance the safety and comfort of all who use the facility.

This new funding will help ensure that Carver continues to serve as a vital resource for youth and families in Norwalk for years to come, providing a safe, enriching learning, growth, and community-building environment.

Stay tuned for more updates as we embark on this exciting journey to modernize and enhance the Carver Community Center!

Youth Roundtable convening on exploring solutions and alternatives for youth aggression in the community: Join the Conversation!

The City of Norwalk Youth Services Advisory Board (YSAB) is sponsoring a vital community conversation on Monday, October 28th, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM at the Main Norwalk Public Library. This initial convening will explore potential solutions to address and reduce youth aggression in our community.

As a first step in this ongoing effort, the meeting will serve as a listening session, allowing participants to exchange preliminary ideas and perspectives on this complex issue. Lunch will be provided, so RSVP to ensure adequate refreshments.

We encourage community members, stakeholders, and any interested parties to attend. Feel free to invite others who are passionate about contributing to this critical dialogue. Together, we can create safer spaces for Norwalk’s youth.

RSVP to: dwalenczyk@norwalkct.org

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.