NCSD

What is the Student Assistance Program (SAP)?

Student Assistance Programs (SAP) in Pennsylvania help schools identify students who are experiencing behavior and/or academic difficulties, which pose a barrier to their learning and success in school.  SAP offers support to those students and their families.

A SAP Team is made up of school and community agency staff. The team members have received specialized training from the Commonwealth of PA approved SAP Training providers.  Teams may include teachers, nurses, counselors and administrators.  The team is here to help you access school and community services.

Our goal is to help your child succeed in school.  Students come to the SAP team in different ways; anyone can refer a student to SAP.  Any school staff member, a friend or family member, can let the SAP team know that they are worried about someone.  The SAP team will not become involved unless we receive permission from parents/guardians.

Some of the barriers to learning students may experience include:

• The use of, or pressure to use, alcohol, tobacco or other drugs

• Depression or anxiety

• Emotional disorders

• Aggression toward or from others

• Grief and/or loss

• Disruptive life changes

• Violence or safety concerns

How do I contact the SAP Team?

If you have any questions about SAP or you feel that your child may need help, call your child’s school and ask to speak with any of the team members.  Our team will help you find services and assistance within the school and, if needed, in the community.  We do not diagnose, treat, or refer your child for treatment.  Rather, we will provide you with information; YOU make the choices, YOU are part of our team.