Education Services

Education Services

Education Advocates

Education Advocates work closely with youth on probation in support of their educational success. The Education Advocates work with the youth, family, probation officer, and school staff to help ensure an appropriate school placement and positive learning experience for the youth. Staff advocate for needed testing, services, and the educational environment to which a youth is entitled and best meets their needs.

In addition, Education Advocates provide a range of services that facilitate youth getting needed school credits towards graduation, completing their GED, supporting regular and consistent school attendance, improving behavior, advocating with parents for the student's special or remedial education needs, and continuing school participation during important life transitions. Education services provided support the youth's goals related to making positive changes and are part of the youth's probation case plan.

Education Advocates provide a wide range of services that include some specialized interventions that make a very positive difference for the kids they are helping.

Irlen Syndrome

Education Services provides a specific vision screening for kids because it can be a key factor affecting educational success. Irlen Syndrome refers to the brain’s ability to process visual information. Helen Irlen, an educational psychologist, first identified this syndrome of light sensitivity which can impact:

• Academic and work performance   

• Behavior, attention, and concentration   

• Ability to sit still

Vision screening identifies this syndrome; many of the children we work with need intervention in this area. Colored lenses glasses and colored overlays for reading are used to help the brain process visual information more effectively.

Vocational Opportunities

Our Education Advocates make a commitment to supporting youth in their career pursuits beyond education by assessing students' passions, skills, and goals. Marion County Juvenile Department works closely with vocational training programs like Job Corps, CTEC, and the Willamette Career Academy to provide youth pathways into in-demand high-paying jobs. Advocates also provide support in the application process including assistance with resumes, interviews, and the job search process. 

Additionally, the Education Advocates seek credit retrieval through vocational opportunities the youth gain on campus in our Alternative Programs, such as FUEL, Matrix, Fresh Start Market, and Culinary.

Volunteer Opportunities

Join our dedicated team at the Juvenile Department's Education Services Unit! Make a lasting impact on young lives by volunteering your time and skills. Help shape a brighter future for juveniles involved in the juvenile justice system through educational support and mentorship. These volunteer positions are working with Education Advocates in a non-custody environment on the Juvenile Department campus with youth that come in from the community for support and opportunities. We are seeking volunteers with knowledge of all subjects, but most focused on mathematics and language arts. Together, let's empower these youth with knowledge and opportunities for a successful tomorrow. Join us in building a community that believes in second chances and transformative education.  Click here for more information on how you can volunteer.