As a new school year begins, CASA of Santa Cruz County is expanding its commitment to to the most vulnerable children of our community by stepping into a new role: supporting students and their families involved in Truancy Court.
On August 5, 2025, CASA joined the Santa Cruz County Office of Education and the Santa Cruz Superior Court at a special back-to-school event held at the CASA House in Watsonville. The gathering celebrated two important efforts: the distribution of backpacks and school supplies for foster and justice-involved youth, and the official public launch of CASA’s newest initiative—its partnership with Santa Cruz County Truancy Court.
Watch the full press conference here:
“Despite their families doing everything they can—and despite the deep commitment and expertise of our schools—there are students who are facing such extreme barriers that they will not make it back to school this year,” said Lynne Petrovic, CASA’s Executive Director. “That’s not okay. And that’s why this day, and this collaboration, matters so much.”
Addressing Chronic Absenteeism with Compassion and Advocacy
With 19% of Santa Cruz County students chronically absent (missing more than one month of school), the Truancy Court was created in Spring 2025 to provide early intervention and support for families facing the most serious barriers to consistent school attendance.
At the request of Judge Jerry Vinluan, CASA was invited to join this new juvenile court as a trusted partner. Trained CASA Advocates are now matched with participating families to provide one-on-one support tailored to each child’s unique situation.
CASA Advocates:
Represent the best interests of the child
Attend court hearings and school meetings
Connect families with resources such as tutoring, therapy, transportation, and housing
Provide mentorship and support to students
“It’s our privilege to walk beside these families—offering advocacy, support, and hope for the future,” said Petrovic.
Through this new partnership, CASA’s reach now extends further—ensuring even more students have a consistent, caring adult in their corner.
“Every day a student is in school is a step toward academic, social, and emotional growth,” said Dr. Faris Sabbah, Santa Cruz County Superintendent of Schools. “Chronic absenteeism disrupts that progress for all students, especially those with the greatest needs. This partnership empowers us to intervene earlier, connect families with meaningful support, and keep students on the path to success—engaged and learning in the classroom.”
One Child. One Advocate. One Family at a Time.
“Together with our CASA volunteers, court partners, and educators, we will advocate for every child in the juvenile court system—one child, one Advocate, one family at a time,” said Petrovic.
As the school year begins, CASA’s message is clear: no student should face barriers to education alone. Whether in foster care, on probation, or in Truancy Court, every child deserves someone in their corner—and CASA is here to provide that unwavering support.
