Student Assistance Program

Students may be referred to the Student Assistance Program (SAP) by a teacher, school staff member, parent or guardian, fellow student, or even by referring themselves. The SAP team reviews each referral to determine how the District can best support the student.

Before SAP services begin, parent or guardian permission is required. If you believe your child may benefit from the Student Assistance Program, please contact your child's school and ask to speak with a member of the SAP team.

The SAP team is committed to working collaboratively with families and respects the privacy and confidentiality of all students throughout the referral and intervention process.

Students may experience personal, family, social, emotional, or behavioral challenges that interfere with their ability to succeed in school. While some concerns are temporary, others may require additional support. The following life events and warning signs may indicate that a student could benefit from the Student Assistance Program (SAP).

Common Life Events

• Death of a family member or loved one
• Divorce or separation within the family
• Family relocation
• Relationship difficulties
• Other significant or traumatic life events

Possible Warning Signs

• Withdrawal from family, friends, or school activities
• Changes in friendships or social interactions
• Unexplained physical injuries
• Talking about suicide or self-harm
• Persistent sadness or signs of depression
• Defiance or significant changes in behavior at home or school
• Aggressive behavior
• Frequent dishonesty or secretive behavior
• Requesting money without explanation
• A sudden decline in academic performance
• Experimenting with drugs or alcohol

The Student Assistance Program (SAP) does not diagnose, provide therapy, or determine treatment. Instead, the SAP team works with students and families to identify concerns, connect them with appropriate school and community resources, and support informed decisions that promote student well-being and academic success.

Once a parent or guardian provides permission for SAP services, the Student Assistance Program (SAP) team begins working collaboratively with the student and family to identify appropriate supports and develop a plan for success.

The SAP process typically includes:

• Developing a plan of action with the student and family to address identified barriers to learning.
• Identifying appropriate school-based supports, services, or interventions.
• Connecting families with community resources or agencies when additional support is needed.
• Monitoring student progress and adjusting the support plan as appropriate.
• Maintaining ongoing communication with parents or guardians regarding the student's progress and success.

Parent and guardian involvement is an important part of the SAP process and plays a vital role in supporting positive student outcomes.

Students sometimes experience challenges that are not immediately visible to others. Parents, guardians, school staff, classmates, and even the students themselves can play an important role in recognizing when someone may need additional support.

If you are concerned about a student's social, emotional, behavioral, or mental well-being, or believe a student may be experiencing barriers to learning, you are encouraged to make a referral to the Student Assistance Program (SAP). Referring a student is a proactive way to help connect them with the support and resources they may need.

Once a referral is received, a member of the SAP team will review the information and follow up with the appropriate individuals as needed.

Yes. The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of students and families throughout the intervention process. Information shared with the SAP team is treated with care and is only shared with individuals who have a legitimate educational or professional need to know.

As required by law, school personnel must report situations involving suspected child abuse or neglect, as defined by Pennsylvania law, as well as circumstances in which a student may present a danger to themselves or others.

No. The Student Assistance Program (SAP) does not provide counseling, therapy, or mental health treatment. Instead, SAP team members are trained to recognize signs of high-risk behaviors, including concerns related to substance use, suicide, and other mental health issues.

When appropriate, the SAP team works with students and families to identify available school and community resources and assists families in connecting with services that best meet their child's individual needs.