Valeria Esparza

Valeria Esparza is an Education Liaison II with the National Center for Youth Law’s Compassionate Education System team, providing long-term education case management and advocacy for students experiencing juvenile probation across Santa Clara County, California. Valeria partners with justice-involved youth to help them identify educational goals, navigate the education system, and advocate for their educational rights. She also works closely with parents and caregivers, helping them build their capacity to be more active participants in their students' education and develop meaningful linkages to the education system. 

Valeria is pursuing a bachelor's degree in Social Work from San José State University and has worked with youth for years, focusing on education and advocacy. She uses her lived experiences to approach her work authentically and ensures her students know they are more than their current situation. Her passion for this work stems from her belief that education is the greatest equalizer for historically marginalized communities. 

Valeria is an Oakland, California native. When she is not doing homework or advocating for students, she is most likely visiting her nephew, watching a movie, playing with her dog Grizzly, shopping, or discovering new eateries around the Bay Area with her partner.