As we celebrate Pretrial, Probation, and Parole Supervision Week, we shine a spotlight on Kansas court services officers who are vital to our courts and our communities. Ann Powell is a court services officer in the 18th Judicial District (Sedgwick County), where she works in our child in need of care services. Ann says her job is always changing, so she must be ready for anything. She added that listening without judgment is her most valuable skill, especially since court services officers are often the first professionals to talk to a family in crisis. She uses this skill to help guide families to better outcomes. The most rewarding part of Ann's work is helping families find a permanent solution, whether children go back home or find a new loving family through adoption. It is hard when reintegration is not possible, but Ann and other court services officers can help because they wear many hats. They can be a link between different groups, or they can offer an understanding ear. ...