Who is
​
​Valdez Youth Court?

VYC Judge Katarina Taylor: Valdez Youth Court President

Katarina ("Kat") Taylor has been instrumental in getting the Youth Court up and running after a period of transition, both in the court room and behind the scenes. Now a senior, Kat has been a member of the Bar since junior high school. She is currently Valdez' only judge, and she brings both compassion and gravity to the court room. Kat balances a busy social, family, and athletic life with her Youth Court responsibilities, and manages to give all of it her best. Kat represents Valdez Youth Court to UAYC, the state wide Youth Court organization. 

New Members of the Bar

Jaelynn Adams and Will Comer

Will and Jaelynn joined VYC in January of 2021 and braved a mix of Zoom and in person trainings to earn their membership in the Bar. Their thoughtful and detailed approach to law and justice in class was inspiring. Both their hard work and their compassion came through in the court room, where they have represented local youth as attorneys. ​

Established in 1999

Valdez Youth Court (VYC) was established in 1999 to provide youth in our community with an alternative within the court system. We accept cases of 12-17 year-olds who have committed a violation or misdemeanor. If the defendant chooses to participate in Youth Court, trained youth volunteers will determine a fair sentence by holding a sentencing hearing. 

Our Goal

VYC aims to bring 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

---

Allison Sayer
Program Director
907-255-8687
vdzyouthcourt@gmail.com