Photo Credit: Child Advocates of Montgomery CountyEducation
Judge Scharlene W. Valdez and Child Advocates welcome school district counselors to learn about Justice-Involved Youth Program
On June 12, Montgomery County Court at Law No. 6 (CCL 6) Presiding Judge Scharlene W. Valdez and Child Advocates of Montgomery County welcomed the Conroe ISD Guidance and Counseling team for a comprehensive overview of the Justice-Involved Youth (JIY) Advocacy Program—a first-of-its-kind initiative in Texas—and explored the critical role schools play in supporting the mental health needs of youth in the community.
Launched in fall 2023, the JIY Advocacy program is a collaborative effort between Child Advocates and County Court at Law No. 6. pairing youth entering formal probation with a guardian ad litem—a trained volunteer Advocate who provides mentorship, encouragement, and access to vital community resources.
“It was a privilege to welcome CISD’s compassionate and engaged counselors into our courtroom,” Judge Valdez said. “We are transforming lives in Montgomery County through advocacy and trauma-informed practices, and we’re excited to collaborate with schools to strengthen the mental health support of justice-involved youth.”
During the visit, CISD guidance counselors observed Judge Valdez’s afternoon docket, witnessing firsthand how volunteer Advocates represent the best interests of youth in court. Following the session, Judge Valdez shared how a trauma-informed courtroom is positively impacting outcomes for youth and their families.
Mike Quinn, Child Advocates Lead JIY Advocacy Specialist, and Rosa Hoadley, Advocacy Specialist, also spoke about how Advocates work closely with youths, families, schools, Montgomery County Juvenile Probation, and CCL 6 to deliver coordinated support throughout the probation process.
For more information about the Justice-Involved Youth Advocacy Program, visit www.ChildAdvocatesTexas.org or call (936) 441-5437.
Source: Child Advocates of Montgomery County
