Who is
​
​Valdez Youth Court?

Established in 1999

Valdez Youth Court (VYC) was established in 1999 to provide youth in our community with another alternative within the court system. We accept cases for ages 12-17 years, who have been referred by the District Courts or the Juvenile Probation Officer. Cases referred can be violations and A/B Misdemeanors that have happened within Valdez. A youth must plead guilt or no contest to the charge to have the option of VYC in sentencing. If VYC is chosen for sentencing a hearing is scheduled with a panel of two (2) Judges, a bailiff, two (2) Defense Attorneys and two (2) Prosecuting Attorneys. VYC members are required to attend a training class, which at the end are tested with a bar exam. Once they have passed the exam the new members are then sworn in by our local District  Court Judge.

Our Goal

VYC aims for bringing Restorative Justice to our community. We look at what resources can be provided to the youth, the family and the community as a whole. Our Judges look at each individual and hand down sentences that begin the healing process between the individual and the community. A few examples:

• Community Work Service
• Restitution
• Attend Adult Arraignments
• Art Project  

"Youth Court showed me that I could use my words and my actions in a way to help not only my peers but also the community. My roles in Youth Court have primed my success as I proceed into the rest of my life. Youth Court has given me a sense of accomplishment and show that I really can make a difference. Youth Court means to me growing together as a family. It means making a difference in my community while also having fun learning about the court system in a way that is enjoyable and leaves you wanting more." -Ashlee Schaeffer, 2020 recipient of VYC scholarship

Our Youth Board and Past Members

Ashlee Schaeffer
President

Ashlee joined VYC in 2015 and since then has worked her way up to holding the position of Judge. Ashlee served as student representative on the VYC board her senior year.

Sydney Jenkins
former Vice President

Sydney joined VYC in 2017 and since then has worked her way up to Attorney. 

Destiny Gray
​​former Secretary 

Destiny joined VYC in 2017 and since then has worked her way up to Attorney.

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Sarah Carter
Program Director
907-835-8885
vdzyouthcourt@gmail.com