The Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) hosted the 55th Annual Juvenile Court, Community, and Alternative School Administrators of California (JCCASAC) Conference from May 7-9, 2025, at the Hilton Universal Hotel. 

With the powerful theme “Love Leads to Legacy,” the event brought together educators and leaders from across California who serve youth in juvenile court, community and alternative school settings.

LACOE Student Board Member Sanai Nixon introduced Dr. Debra Duardo, Los Angeles County Superintendent of Schools, who opened the conference with heartfelt remarks that set the tone for a gathering centered on compassion, innovation and educational equity.

The keynote speaker, motivational entertainer Kevin Bracy, energized attendees with a message of resilience and purpose. Another keynote speaker, Dr. Tyisha Noise, delivered an equally compelling presentation focused on the transformative role of education in justice-involved communities. LACOE’s Associate Superintendent Dr. Erin Simon also addressed attendees, reinforcing our commitment to supporting alternative education and honoring the work of educators who make a difference every day.

Adding to the star power of the event, actors Steven Norfleet and Kareem Grimes both made special appearances. Norfleet shared personal reflections about advocacy and connection, while Grimes delivered inspiring remarks and helped celebrate the JCCASAC Teacher of the Year. That special award went to Tim Allison who represents Alice M. Worsley School and the Fresno County Superintendent of Schools. Among 15 outstanding Teacher of the Year nominees from across the state, Tim was chosen for this prestigious honor. This recognition is a powerful reflection of Tim’s dedication, compassion and investment in his students.

Ty Kastendiek, LACOE’s Teacher of the Year nominee and a veteran math and science teacher at Camp Glenn Rockey, was also recognized at the event. With a 32-year career spanning multiple juvenile facilities including Central Juvenile Hall, Los Padrinos and Kilpatrick, Kastendiek has shaped countless student lives with empathy and commitment.

Kastendiek also co-presented a session with Dr. Alice Pak titled “AI for Alternative Education: Practical Strategies to Empower Educators.” Their interactive workshop explored how artificial intelligence can enhance learning, reduce teacher workload and provide personalized support for students in alternative education settings. Participants engaged in hands-on AI exploration while addressing ethical considerations like data privacy and bias, ultimately gaining actionable strategies to support student success in high-need educational environments. The presentation earned enthusiastic applause from attendees.

Other dynamic sessions included:

• “Road to Success Academy (RTSA): Serving Students with Disabilities” presented by Deborah Pandullo and Gia Greaux, highlighting an innovative K–8 program in the Palmdale School District that uses project-based and interdisciplinary learning to connect students with real-world and personal experiences.

• “Innovative Learning: Augmented Reality/Virtual Reality with zSpace Laptops and ClassVR” presented by Alvaro Brito and Jose Ramirez, from LACOE’s Edtech and Innovation unit, showcased how immersive AR technology is transforming education in juvenile camps and halls. Attendees witnessed firsthand how zSpace laptops and VR headsets can foster critical thinking, engagement and student motivation. They also presented another session called “Immersive Learning with Class VR” where they covered practical applications, success stories and strategies for integrating ClassVR into the curriculum to enhance student engagement, learning outcomes and overall educational experience.

Conference highlights included a healing sound bath and therapy animals, offering attendees moments of restoration and connection—underscoring the importance of wellness for educators and the students they serve.

The 2025 JCCASAC Conference proved once again that when love leads, legacy follows—leaving educators inspired and better equipped to support the success and well-being of some of California’s most vulnerable students.