PIP is a program designed to support students and families as an alternative to suspension.
When a student has a controlled substance infraction at school, the school administrator will offer optional participation in PIP, a psycho-educational intervention provided by an APS Crossroads Counselor (School Counselors with specialized training in the area of substance use/misuse).
PIP creates a non-judgmental and supportive environment where the student and their parent(s)/guardian(s) are connected to information that aims to increase knowledge and understanding of:
why people use substances
the impact of use on developing brains and life
harm reduction
refusal skills
coping strategies and alternatives to use
The Crossroads Counselor will share community resources, make outside referrals when appropriate, and serve as an ongoing resource and support for the student and their family. The goal of PIP is to equip the student to make better choices and decrease the likelihood of re-offense.