Celebrating Graduates and The Impact of Educational Advocacy

Celebrating 2026 Graduates

This Summer, CASA of Denton County is celebrating seven high school graduates who were served by CASA. To honor this important milestone, we hosted a graduation celebration and invited the students, their families, friends, caseworkers, attorneys, and anyone they wanted by their side to recognize their achievements and celebrate what comes next.

Graduating from High School is a major accomplishment for any student, but it carries even greater significance for children who have experienced foster care. According to the Texas Education Agency’s Study of Secondary School Completion and Dropouts in Texas Public Schools for the 2023–24 School Year, students with a history of foster care had the highest dropout rate among all student characteristics studied. These seven graduates have overcome challenges that many of their peers never face, making their diplomas a testament to their resilience and determination.

Educational Advocacy beyond the courtroom

For children on our cases, CASA Volunteers provide advocacy that extends beyond the courtroom. As Guardian Ad Litem, Denton County CASA Advocates have access to children’s educational records, but their support doesn’t stop there. They often visit children at school, talk with teachers and school counselors, identify areas where additional support may be needed, and advocate for tutoring, specialized education services, and extracurricular opportunities that help children feel connected and engaged.

For high school students, that advocacy often includes helping them prepare for life after graduation. CASA Advocates can assist students with exploring career and college options, navigating applications, identifying scholarship opportunities, and connecting youth with resources that support a successful transition into adulthood.

Helping every child build a brighter future

While everyone involved in a child’s case plays an important role, a CASA volunteer has one primary responsibility: advocating for the child’s best interests. Sometimes that means helping a student adjust to school during major life changes. Other times it means encouraging them through a difficult semester or helping them take the next step toward their future. Educational advocacy looks different for every child because every child’s needs are different!

Congratulations again to all of the 2026 graduates, especially the seven students served by CASA of Denton County Advocates. Their accomplishments deserve to be celebrated, and their futures are bright. You can help more children reach milestones like these by volunteering, donating, or sharing CASA’s mission so every child has someone advocating for their education and their future.