08/17/2026
As kids are going back to school in the upcoming weeks, remember that not every child will walk through the school doors carrying only a backpack.
Some are carrying the effects of abuse, neglect, instability, loss, or trauma.
For those children, concentrating may be harder. Behavior may look different. Trust may take time. And sometimes, a teacher, counselor, bus driver, coach, or other school staff member may be the first safe adult to notice that something isn't right.
In fact, education personnel are one of the leading sources of child abuse and neglect reports in the United States, accounting for about 1 in 5 screened-in referrals.
That makes the return to school especially important for these children.
And for children involved in the court system, a CASA volunteer adds another consistent adult to their team. Someone who gets to know the child, talks with the important people in their life, follows what is happening at school and at home, and advocates for their best interests.
As a new school year begins, we are grateful for the teachers, school staff, CASA volunteers, and other caring adults who pay attention, ask questions, and SHOW UP for children.
Sometimes showing up changes everything.
Would you like to learn how you can show up for a child who is going through the court system?
Register at www.geaugacountycasa.org
