Norwalk Celebrates Progress: Honoring Black History & Breaking Ground on a New Community Recreation Center

A Night of Tribute and Celebration: Norwalk Public Schools’ 3rd Annual Black History & Heritage Festival

Last Thursday night, Norwalk High School was filled with energy and pride as hundreds gathered to celebrate Norwalk Public Schools’ 3rd Annual Black History & Heritage Festival. This year’s theme, “Hands That Built the Nation,” aligned with the national Black History Month focus on “African Americans and Labor,” spotlighting the immense contributions of Black workers throughout history.

The festival featured student performances, spoken word presentations, and tributes to Black pioneers who played vital roles in shaping American industry and culture. Attendees enjoyed historical narratives, dramatic readings, and a tribute to figures like Harry “Bucky” Lew, the first Black professional basketball player, and tennis icons Serena and Venus Williams.

Dignitaries in attendance included State Senator Bob Duff, State Representative Kadeem Roberts, Mayor Harry Rilling, and several Norwalk Board of Education members, demonstrating the city's commitment to recognizing and uplifting Black history.

One highlight of the evening was the “Black Wall Street” showcase, a tribute to Norwalk’s Black-owned businesses that underscored the importance of economic empowerment and entrepreneurship in the community.

The festival served as a powerful reminder of the resilience, innovation, and contributions of African Americans, ensuring that their stories continue to inspire future generations.

Breaking Ground on the Norwalk Community Recreation Center: A Milestone for the City

Exciting progress in South Norwalk! 🎉 The groundbreaking for the new South Norwalk Community Center marks a major step forward in strengthening local resources and opportunities. As Carver continues to provide before- and after-school and summer programs in South Norwalk, we celebrate this investment in the community—alongside other milestones like the establishment of the South Norwalk Neighborhood School (SONO). 📚🏗️

The next morning, another historic moment took place as U.S. Rep. Jim Himes, Mayor Harry Rilling, and State Sen. Bob Duff gathered with local officials and community members to break ground on the long-anticipated Norwalk Community Recreation Center at 98 S. Main St.

This transformative project, a collaboration between the City of Norwalk and the Riverbrook YMCA, has been years in the making. With $2 million in federal funding secured by Rep. Himes in Fiscal Year 2023, the facility will provide residents with a range of youth programs, educational spaces, and recreational amenities.

Key features of the new center include:

• A high school-sized gym

• Multipurpose rooms for dance, Pilates, and community events

• A computer lab and podcasting studio

• A sensory-friendly space for children

• Two commercial kitchens, one dedicated to culinary education

The project also represents a revitalization of the surrounding area, once seen as unsafe but now transformed into a welcoming space for the community.

While no official completion date has been announced, the groundbreaking marks a significant step toward a brighter, more connected Norwalk.

And here is a at-a-glance look at Carver’s own storied history!

Carver’s Afterschool Program at Roton Middle School: A Strong Foundation for Success

At Roton Middle School, Mr. Dean Vaccaro leads a team of school day educators who make Carver’s afterschool program such a success. This dynamic and engaging learning environment balances homework, enrichment, and wellness/ recreation.

This blog post highlights how students receive academic support through innovative tools like UPchieve for Teachers and interactive learning activities like the Math Challenge Jeopardy! Game.

UPchieve: Free, Online STEM Tutoring for Carver Students

One group of students at Roton Middle School benefits from UPchieve for Teachers, an online tutoring platform that connects students with tutors in STEM subjects. This Verizon-supported national initiative provides financial backing and over 1,000 Verizon volunteer Academic Coaches to help students succeed.

How it works:

• Students log in and select a subject they need help with.

• UPchieve matches them with a certified tutor in real time.

• Tutoring takes place in a safe, text-based chat and virtual whiteboard environment.

• Students earn rewards: After completing five sessions, students receive a $10 gift card as an incentive.

• Verizon also provides Carver students with laptops, ensuring they can use UPchieve at school and home.

• Educators track progress seamlessly, making sharing updates with teachers and parents easy.

By integrating with platforms like Google Classroom and Canvas, UPchieve ensures a smooth learning experience while empowering students to take charge of their academic success.

Math Challenge: A Jeopardy! Game that Makes Learning Fun

For students looking to reinforce their math skills, Carver’s Math Challenge offers an exciting, game-based approach to problem-solving. Modeled after the classic Jeopardy! This activity turns math review into a friendly competition that keeps students engaged.

Game Setup:

• A game board is organized into categories such as multiplication, fractions, geometry, and problem-solving strategies.

• Point values increase with difficulty, encouraging students to challenge themselves.

• Team play: Students work in teams to choose a category and answer questions.

• Scoring: Correct answers earn points, while incorrect answers may lead to point deductions or opportunities for opposing teams to steal.

This format strengthens math proficiency and encourages teamwork, strategic thinking, and confidence in problem-solving.

Enrichment Activities: From 3D Snowflakes to Survival Structures

Beyond homework help, Carver’s afterschool program also nurtures creativity and critical thinking through hands-on enrichment activities:

• Art Enrichment: Students crafted 3D Snowflakes to be donated to the school’s upcoming Frozen production, fostering artistic expression and school community involvement.

• Science Enrichment: Students worked in teams to construct survival structures using natural materials they found outside, testing their ability to design shelters that could withstand inclement weather—a great way to learn engineering and problem-solving skills in a real-world context.

Meet Dean Vaccaro: The Leader Behind Carver at Roton

As the Director of the R.A.M.S. (Carver) Afterschool Program and an 8th Grade U.S. History Teacher, Mr. Dean Vaccaro brings a passion for education and student success to Carver’s afterschool initiatives. A National Board-Certified Teacher, Vaccaro has developed creative ways to engage students, from organizing historical scavenger hunts to coaching students in geography competitions. His leadership ensures that Carver’s program at Roton Middle School is a launchpad for academic growth and personal development.

Empowering Students for Success

Carver’s afterschool program at Roton Middle School offers students a well-rounded learning experience, blending academic support, enrichment opportunities, and recreational activities. Students receive the support and inspiration they need to excel through partnerships like Verizon’s UPchieve, creative math challenges, and hands-on STEAM projects.

Celebrating Dr. Alexandra Estrella: A Stalwart Advocate for Educational Equity and Carver’s Students

We are thrilled to celebrate Dr. Alexandra Estrella, Superintendent of Norwalk Public Schools, for being named a 2025 recipient of the Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award by AASA, The School Superintendents Association. This prestigious honor recognizes education leaders who have made significant strides in advancing the status of women and minorities in education and addressing social justice issues in schools.

Dr. Estrella has been a champion for educational equity, breaking down barriers to ensure every student has the opportunity to thrive. Since joining Norwalk Public Schools in 2020, she has transformed the district with a bold vision for excellence, inclusion, and opportunity. Her leadership has been instrumental in closing achievement gaps, fostering diverse leadership, and expanding access to high-quality education for all students.

A Powerful Partner to Carver and Our Families

At Carver, we have had the privilege of working alongside Dr. Estrella, whose steadfast commitment to our students and families has strengthened our partnership with Norwalk Public Schools. Through her support, Carver has expanded academic enrichment programs, enhanced after-school and summer learning opportunities, and provided critical resources that uplift students from all backgrounds.

Dr. Estrella’s collaborative leadership has ensured that community-based organizations like Carver can flourish as key partners in student success. She helps to bridge opportunity gaps and nurture the next generation of leaders. Her passion for empowering students, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities, aligns with Carver’s educational equity and excellence mission.

A Well-Deserved Honor

Dr. Estrella will be honored at AASA’s 2025 National Conference on Education in New Orleans, where she will receive the Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award alongside Nettie Collins-Hart, Superintendent of Hazelwood School District in Missouri.

This recognition is a testament to her unwavering dedication, visionary leadership, and deep-rooted belief in the power of education to transform lives. We at Carver extend our heartfelt congratulations to Dr. Estrella and look forward to continuing our shared mission of ensuring that every student in Norwalk has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

Thank you, Dr. Estrella, for your extraordinary leadership, partnership, and unwavering commitment to our students and families!

Building, Creating, and Playing: Hands-On Learning at Carver’s BARK Afterschool Program at Nathan Hale Middle School

At Nathan Hale Middle School, Carver’s BARK afterschool program offers homework help and much else. It’s dynamic offerings engage students in project-based, hands-on enrichment activities that inspire creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking.

Led by Christy Counts, a certified teacher at the school and Carver’s Lead Program Coordinator, the program offers students a chance to explore their interests and develop new skills in a fun, interactive environment.

Recently, students have been immersed in a variety of engaging activities, each designed to spark curiosity and encourage active learning:

• Crafts from The Past – Students took a step back in time by working on papier-mâché bowls, learning traditional crafting techniques while honing their fine motor skills and artistic expression.

• Lego for Enthusiasts – More than play, this program challenges students with advanced LEGO builds, including intricate LEGO Architecture projects and original creations that showcase their problem-solving abilities.

• Gym Activity & Dodgeball – Physical activity is essential to a well-rounded after-school experience. Students had the opportunity to release energy, build teamwork, and stay active through a friendly dodgeball match, adding a wellness component to their day.

At Carver’s BARK program, afterschool hours are transformed into an adventure of exploration and discovery, where students can build, create, and play in a supportive and engaging environment. Stay tuned for more exciting enrichment activities as we continue to empower young minds through hands-on learning!

Make a Difference This Summer! Apply Now for Carver’s 2025 Summer Camp Jobs!

Are you ready for an exciting summer filled with fun, learning, and making a lasting impact on young lives? Carver Community Center and SoNo Summer Camp are now accepting applications for Summer 2025 employment! If you’re 16 or older by July 1st and looking for a rewarding way to spend your summer, this is the opportunity for you!

Why Work at Carver’s Summer Camps?

Carver’s summer programs offer a dynamic experience where staff play a crucial role in engaging campers (ages 5-13) in activities like:
✅ Field trips to exciting destinations
✅ Wellness programs promoting physical activity and healthy habits
✅ Swimming & outdoor fun to keep kids active and energized
✅ Creative & STEM learning to spark curiosity and growth

Key Details:

📍 Locations:

• Carver Community Center: 7 Academy Street, Norwalk

• SoNo Summer Camp: 46 Concord Street, Norwalk

📅 Program Duration:

• July 1st – August 8th, 2025 (Closed July 4th)

👥 Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be 16 or older by July 1, 2025

• Must be available for the full 6-week program

⏰ Shifts Available:

• 8:15 AM – 3:15 PM

• 10:30 AM – 5:30 PM

📌 Application Deadline:

• April 22, 2025 (Applications received after this date will be considered based on need.)

🔎 Background Check Required

This is more than just a summer job—it’s an opportunity to mentor, inspire, and create unforgettable experiences for Norwalk’s youth while gaining valuable leadership and teamwork skills.

Don’t wait—APPLY NOW and make Summer 2025 your most rewarding summer yet!

👉 [Insert Application Link Here]

A Summer of Discovery: Carver’s 2025 Summer Programs Empower Norwalk’s Youth

The excitement builds as Carver prepares to welcome students into a summer filled with discovery, growth, and adventure! From Tuesday, July 1, 2025, to Friday, August 8, 2025, Carver’s Summer Camp, SoNo Summer Camp, and After the Bell Enrichment programs will be in full swing, offering engaging, hands-on learning experiences for children ages 5-15. Meanwhile, the After the Summer Bell (ATSB) program will run from Monday, June 30, 2025, to Thursday, July 31, 2025, providing a seamless extension of Norwalk Public Schools’ summer school.

Each program balances education and recreation, ensuring that summer is enriching and fun for Norwalk students. Field trips, wellness and recreational activities, swimming, and project-based, hands-on learning will all help prepare students for a successful 2025-2026 school year.

Building Strong Foundations: Summer Transition Programs

Carver’s Middle School and High School Transition Programs offer a crucial support system for students moving into new academic environments. Running from July 1, 2025, to July 31, 2025, these specialized programs ensure that rising 6th and 9th graders enter their new schools feeling confident and prepared.

• Middle School Transition Program (Rising 6th Graders) – Focuses on academic readiness, small-group learning, and enrichment activities.

• High School Transition Program (Rising 9th Graders) – Helps students understand transcripts, graduation requirements, and career pathways while developing individualized Student Success Plans through Naviance/Family Connection.

Both programs offer individualized instruction, parental involvement, and free transportation, easing the transition for students and working families alike.

After the Bell Enrichment Expands to Jefferson Elementary!

This year, Carver is excited to expand the After the Bell Enrichment program to a new location: Jefferson Elementary School at 75 Van Buren Avenue! Running from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., with an extended day option until 5:30 p.m., this program is ideal for children ages 5-11 who want to continue learning beyond the school year.

Through various engaging activities—including science, art, marine science, engineering, social-emotional learning, and weekly field trips—students will develop valuable skills while having a blast!

Creating Lifelong Memories

At the Carver Community Center and SoNo Camp, summer isn’t just about staying busy—it’s about growing, discovering new interests, and building lifelong friendships. With dedicated staff, diverse activities, and a commitment to fostering academic and personal growth, Carver’s summer programs ensure every child has an unforgettable, enriching experience.

📅 Save the dates and get ready for a fantastic summer at Carver!

Empowering Change: State Rep. Kadeem Roberts Inspires on "Lift As We Climb"

In a world where every story of resilience matters, Norwalk Public Schools amplifies local voices through its dynamic YouTube series, Lift As We Climb. In this captivating installment, Antonio Matta, a 10th-grade student at Brien McMahon High School, sits down with State Rep. Kadeem Roberts, a pillar of Norwalk’s community, to explore his journey of overcoming challenges and shaping progress.

A Journey of Resilience and Triumph
In the interview, Rep. Roberts opens up about the trials and triumphs that have defined his path to public service. He recounts political milestones, a heartfelt story of perseverance, sacrifice, and a deep-rooted commitment to uplifting others. His personal experiences reflect the broader struggles and victories of the Black community, showcasing the hard-fought battles that have paved the way for today's progress.

The Power of Storytelling
Produced by Norwalk Public Schools, the series invites local Black leaders to share their stories, powerfully reminding viewers of the strength found in community and collective action. Through candid conversations and thoughtful insights, students and community members alike are encouraged to reflect on the importance of history, the impact of perseverance, and the promise of a future built on equity and justice.

A Conversation That Inspires Future Leaders
During the interview, Rep. Roberts emphasizes the significance of mentorship and community engagement. His message resonates with aspiring young leaders who are urged to embrace their heritage, learn from the past, and actively contribute to shaping a more inclusive future. His words remind us that every step forward contributes to the collective climb toward a better tomorrow.

This episode of Lift As We Climb highlights the remarkable journey of State Rep. Kadeem Roberts and serves as an inspirational testament to the power of resilience. As viewers watch the interview, they are invited to join a conversation about progress, community empowerment, and the enduring spirit of those who dare to dream and lead.

Watch the full interview on YouTube and join Norwalk Public Schools in celebrating the voices that continue to shape our community, one inspiring story at a time.

Celebrating Excellence: Dr. Damon Lewis Named 2025 Principal of the Year & How Carver’s STEAM Partnership with Ponus Ridge Elevates Student Success

At Carver, we believe that after-school and summer programming should do more than just supplement classroom learning—it should amplify the excellence of the schools we serve. Nowhere is this commitment more evident than in our long-standing partnership with Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, a beacon of innovation in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math (STEAM) education.

Dr. Damon Lewis, Principal of Ponus Ridge, was just named the 2025 Middle School Principal of the Year by the Connecticut Association of Schools (CAS). The award recognizes his visionary leadership in fostering an exceptional learning environment. See the article in The Hour here.

Before stepping into his role as Principal in 2015, Dr. Lewis served as the middle school's assistant principal for four years. He worked closely with Carver to ensure that our after-school and summer transition programs provided hands-on, immersive learning experiences that enriched students’ education, inspired creativity, and cultivated problem-solving skills.

What Sets Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy Apart?

Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy isn't just another middle school but a trailblazer in STEAM education. Ponus Ridge takes a holistic and integrated approach, ensuring that STEAM principles are woven throughout every aspect of the curriculum. Here's what makes it unique:

• Integrated STEAM Approach: Rather than treating STEM and the Arts as separate disciplines, Ponus Ridge uses Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics as access points for guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking.

• Problem-Based Learning: Students engage in hands-on, real-world challenges that inspire curiosity and innovation.

• Dedicated STEAM Units: STEAM is not an afterthought—it is embedded into all subjects, ensuring seamless integration across the curriculum.

• Innovative Technology: The school is equipped with a Verizon Innovative Learning Lab, a cutting-edge space that allows students to explore virtual reality, AI, and advanced digital tools.

• STEAM Principles of Learning: These guiding principles include opportunities for student choice, productive struggle, and revision, all aimed at fostering a growth mindset and lifelong learning.

Carver’s Role: Enhancing STEAM Learning Beyond the School Day

Carver’s partnership with Ponus Ridge is about more than just extending school hours—it’s about deepening learning experiences, increasing access, and ensuring that all students, regardless of skill level, can thrive in STEAM education. Our after-school and summer programs mirror Ponus Ridge’s forward-thinking approach through:

✅ Inclusive Learning Environments – We ensure all students feel welcomed and valued in our programs, promoting collaboration and active participation.
✅ Project-Based Learning – Our curriculum is built around real-world projects spanning all five STEAM disciplines, allowing students to engage in relevant and exciting learning.
✅ Hands-On Experiments – Carver students get firsthand experience applying classroom knowledge to real-world scenarios from coding challenges to robotics projects.
✅ Collaborative Learning – Students work in teams to solve complex challenges, learn from one another, and develop essential teamwork skills.
✅ Personalized Instruction – By aligning lessons with students' interests and skill levels, Carver ensures that every child is challenged and supported.
✅ Multi-Tiered Support System (MTSS/SRBI) – Carver integrates evidence-based interventions in reading, math, and science to close achievement gaps and support social-emotional development.

A Model for the Future of STEAM Education

Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy and Carver believe that STEAM education is for everyone, not just students who naturally gravitate toward math and science. By integrating creativity, critical thinking, and innovation into every lesson, we prepare students for future careers while fostering a lifelong love of learning.

The success of Ponus Ridge STEAM Academy, reflected in Dr. Lewis’s well-earned recognition, is a testament to the power of partnerships that invest in student potential. We are proud to stand alongside the exceptional educators and administrators at Ponus Ridge and through Norwalk Public Schools in making STEAM learning accessible, engaging, and transformative for every student.

As we expand Carver’s impact across Norwalk, we remain committed to championing the excellence of the schools we serve—because when schools and community partners work together, students thrive.

Carver Elementary Students Explore the Magic of Music and Dance with Norwalk Symphony Orchestra

Carver Elementary students recently experienced an unforgettable musical journey at Norwalk City Hall. As part of Carver's STEAM education programming, they attended a special session with the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra. This engaging event, offered through the Symphony’s “(Not) Just For Kids” program, gave students a dynamic introduction to classical music and musical theater.

In this session, young learners had the opportunity to interact with professional musicians and performers from the Symphony’s most recent production, “Oklahoma! – In Concert.” The program featured lively demonstrations as musicians performed and answered students’ questions.

The Norwalk Symphony Orchestra, in partnership with the New Paradigm Theatre Company, staged a concert version of Rodgers and Hammerstein’s Oklahoma! on February 8 and 9, 2025, at Norwalk Concert Hall in Norwalk City Hall. This vibrant performance brought the beloved classic to life with a full orchestra, professional singers, and a large cast, directed by Norwalk Symphony Musical Director Jonathan Yates and New Paradigm Theatre Stage Director Kristin Huffman. Students were introduced to iconic songs such as “Oh, What a Beautiful Mornin’,” “People Will Say We’re in Love,” and “The Surrey with the Fringe on Top.”

Carver’s collaboration with the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra continues to bring music education to life for students, fostering an appreciation for the performing arts while aligning with STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) learning objectives. This immersive experience introduced students to classical music and highlighted the power of storytelling through music and dance.

Through its partnership with Norwalk Public Schools and Stepping Stones Museum for Children, the Symphony also provides virtual content based on the “(Not) Just for Kids” program. These efforts ensure that students across Norwalk can access high-quality music education, inspiring the next generation of musicians and art enthusiasts.

By connecting Carver students with professional musicians and live performances, this program enriches their learning experience and fosters creativity, curiosity, and a lifelong love of the arts. Bravo to the Norwalk Symphony Orchestra for bringing music education to our students in an exciting and impactful way! 🎶🎻✨

Breakfast With Champions: Inspiring Futures at Carver’s Annual Career Event!