Santa Clara County Superior Court’s Twelfth Annual Educator’s Day: Empowering Educators with Legal Insights and Collaborative Solutions

SAN JOSÉ, California (October 28, 2024):  The Superior Court of California, County of Santa Clara hosted its twelfth annual Educator’s Day, bringing together superintendents, principals, teachers, and counselors from across Santa Clara County for a day of meaningful dialogue at the intersection of education and the justice system. Supported by a grant from the California Judges Foundation, Educator’s Day is designed to foster collaboration, provide valuable legal perspectives, and inspire solutions to pressing challenges faced in educational settings today.

Hon. Julia Alloggiamento, Chair of the Court Community Outreach Committee and Vice Chair of California’s Power of Democracy Steering Committee, extended a warm welcome to participants, emphasizing the Court's commitment to bridging knowledge gaps and addressing critical issues that impact both the classroom and the broader community.

"Educator's Day provides our educators with the tools to effectively address issues that intersect their students and the justice system.  In addition, we offer multiple opportunities through court outreach and community resources for teachers to promote civic learning and engagement,” said Hon. Julia Alloggiamento.  “We all know the impact of educators in connecting with and engaging our children.  We do what we can to support their efforts to inspire our future leaders and reduce juvenile justice involvement."  

This year’s program featured impactful panels and presentations covering key issues such as juvenile justice, civic engagement, and relationship-building. The panel on Re-Engaging Juvenile Justice Youth explored innovative approaches to supporting at-risk youth, with insights shared by Judge L. Michael Clark, Dane Caldwell-Holden, Director of Alternative Education at the Santa Clara County Office of Education (SCCOE), Joy Hernandez, Senior Program Manager at the National Center for Youth Law, Maryam Adalat, Director of Student Services for the East Side Union High School District, and Alison Coy, Director of Educational Options for the Fremont Union High School District.

"The most fundamental understanding of the Education Code and juvenile justice is recognizing the range of experiences these young people may have," said Joy Hernandez, Senior Program Manager at the National Center for Youth Law. "Youth involved in the juvenile justice system may have been accused of violating the law, currently face court proceedings, have experienced prior incarceration, or are presently incarcerated. The narratives around these individuals are diverse and often complex, demanding a nuanced approach in our schools and communities to support their growth and rehabilitation."

A highlight of the event included a session on Civic Engagement & Civic Learning, which provided educators with strategies for fostering civic engagement among students. Presenters included Judge Julia Alloggiamento, SCCOE Community Engagement and Public Relations Specialist Payje Redmond, and Alum Rock School Board Member Corina Herrera-Loera. This session also celebrated the achievements of local schools that have earned the California Civic Learning Award, recognizing Yerba Buena High School, Santa Clara High School, and Mt. Madonna High School for their commitment to civic education.

The event also featured a panel on Restraining Orders & Cultivating Healthy Relationships, which underscored the importance of educating young people about healthy relationships and navigating restraining orders when necessary. Key insights were offered by Presiding Judge Elect Julie Emede, Commissioner Johanna Thai Van Dat, Supervising Deputy District Attorney Adam Flores, and Peer Court Specialist Greg Zieman.

During the lunch and resource panel session, participants engaged in direct dialogue and networked with panelists, judicial representatives, and fellow educators, building connections and discussing shared goals.

"We are committed to the vision of engaging every student in our county in our democracy," said Hon. Beth McGowen, Presiding Judge. "By equipping educators with the support, insights, and resources they need, we foster a well-supported community filled with informed and engaged individuals ready to shape a stronger future."

Educator’s Day at the Court continues to be a vital program that equips educators with essential knowledge and fosters a shared commitment to the well-being of Santa Clara County’s youth.