During National School Counselor Week, we recognize the critical role school counselors play in helping students navigate academic, social-emotional and postsecondary pathways. At Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, that role takes on added urgency and meaning.

School counselors Esperanza Jacobs and Melanie Segrave have spent the past year serving students at Los Padrinos, supporting young people whose educational journeys have often been interrupted by instability, trauma or involvement in the juvenile justice system. While their setting may look different from a traditional school campus, their mission remains the same: help students see their potential and move forward with purpose.

A Day That Balances Structure and Support

No two days look exactly alike for counselors at Los Padrinos. Each morning begins with reviewing student movement, ensuring students are placed in the correct housing units and classrooms and reviewing enrollment needs. They carefully analyze transcripts from multiple schools, sometimes across districts or states, to place students in the right courses and keep them on track for graduation.

In addition to academic placement, they meet daily with students who request support. Whether addressing school credit deficiencies, explaining graduation options under California law or checking in on a student’s emotional well-being, counselors aim to meet each request within 24 hours.

“We cover academics, social-emotional support and college and career planning—all in one role,” Segrave explained.

Opening Doors to College and Career Pathways

College and career planning is a major focus of the counseling program. Students are introduced to career exploration, OSHA certification programs in multiple industries and dual enrollment opportunities through a partnership with Cerritos College. Participating students earn both high school and college credit while building confidence and momentum toward life after graduation.

Jacobs and Segrave also guide students through Individualized Interagency Youth Transition Plans (IAYTPs), helping them identify goals and connect with supports they will need when transitioning back into the community. 

“Sometimes students may not know what they want to do in the future," said Jacobs. “So having these conversations helps give them ideas of what it could potentially be.”

Building Trust, One Relationship at a Time

While the work is complex, both counselors agree that building relationships with students comes naturally. By learning students’ names, listening without judgment and consistently following through, trust develops quickly.

“Students can tell when you’re genuine,” said Jacobs. “Often, what they need most is someone to listen and validate their feelings.” 

Counselors model respectful communication, set clear boundaries and help students develop skills they can carry into school, work and everyday life. Over time, many students begin to self-correct, advocate for themselves and support one another.

Moments That Make It All Worth It

The most rewarding moments come when students begin to shift their mindset, when behavior improves, academic goals feel attainable or a student decides to walk away from harmful influences.

“There are moments when a student says, ‘I’m tired of this life. I want something different,’” Segrave said. “When that happens, it reminds us why this work matters.” 

Both counselors emphasize that this work is not easy and not for everyone. It requires patience, resilience and a deep commitment to serving students who are often misunderstood. But for those called to the profession, the impact is profound.

“I came from a job I didn’t love to a job I truly believe in,” Segrave reflected. “If I could do this work forever, I would.” 

During National School Counselor Week, we celebrate counselors like Jacobs and Segrave, whose dedication helps students find stability, direction and hope. Their work at Los Padrinos is a powerful reminder that when students are supported with care and high expectations, transformation is possible.