Norwalk School District opens family center at 46 Conquer Street to centralize services for families

Norwalk School District on Monday celebrated the opening of a new family center at 46 Conquer Street, a centralized site that district leaders and partners said will make it easier for families to access services, register students and connect with supports.

"Empowerment begins when people feel seen, valued and supported," the district leader who opened the ceremony said, describing the center as an entry point for families who otherwise might struggle to navigate education and city systems. The speaker said neighbors had raised hopes that the district and city would restore and beautify the rear playground, removed when the previous occupant left the site.

Mayor Barbara Smith praised the center as a partnership between the city, the district and community organizations. "By bringing Norwalk Public Schools, city agencies, and community organizations together, we're making it easier for families to navigate services and access support in one convenient location," she said, and noted the site will continue to house the NextStep program for students ages 18 to 22 with cognitive and developmental disabilities.

Kenneth Waller, introduced as CEO of Nora Community Health Center, said the center gives the health center a new location to reach students and families. "No community health center will continue to provide safe, quality and innovative medical services that aim to meet the needs of all students and families," Waller said, and pledged continued collaboration with the district.

Francis Saias, the family center supervisor and education administrator for multilingual learners, said the building — constructed in 1938 — carries a history of welcoming families and now serves a diverse, largely immigrant neighborhood. Saias outlined partnerships that will operate from the center, including a community pantry managed in part by mutual-aid volunteers and by NextStep students as a leadership opportunity.

Veronica Lamen, education administrator for special education services, said Norwalk NextSteps will benefit from easy access to public transit and new volunteer and job-site opportunities for transition students. Lamen said the program’s staff includes 24 teachers, RBTs, paraprofessionals and service providers working with 32 students.

Heidi Perovich, education administrator for Future Ready programs, described the site’s role in supporting students who need smaller learning environments and scaffolding to meet state standards. She said graduation counts have risen in recent years, citing 22 graduates in January (up from 15 the previous year) and reporting 29 graduates this week. Perovich described services for students on out-of-school suspension and for those in alternative opportunity programs, emphasizing continuous instruction so students do not lose credit.

Speakers repeatedly thanked the facilities team and front-line staff for making the move happen quickly; Dr. Estraa singled out Francis Saias, facilities staff member George Seik (listed in remarks as George Savic in a separate line) and Carlos, the building custodian, for special recognition.

The ceremony concluded with a ribbon cutting and applause. District and city officials said the center will continue developing partnerships and programs to support families and keep students on track to graduate.