Programs & Supports

What is SAP?  

Student Assistance Programs (SAP) are mandated in all schools in Pennsylvania. These programs identify issues such as alcohol, drugs, and behavioral and mental health that pose a barrier to a student’s learning and school success. SAP is also mandatory if the student commits a violation of the East Penn School District’s Drug and Alcohol Policy. If a violation is committed, then the student will undergo a mandatory assessment by a behavioral health professional.

The Student Assistance Program is not a treatment program. Rather, it is a process using techniques to mobilize school resources to remove learning barriers. Where the problem is beyond the scope of the school, this program assists the parent/student with information so they may access services within the community. 

How does the program work?

Referral to the team by:

• Teacher

• Counselor

• Another staff member

• Administration

• Parent

• Student

Process

• Identify barriers to learning

• Parent notification / consent / involvement

• Possible interview with student (with parent consent)

• Possible intervention with parents and student (group participation and assessment)

• Possible referral for support services (recommendations will be made by the assessor)

What are the benefits of the Student Assistance Program?

• Help foster a team approach to problem solving

• Enhance positive school experiences for all students

• Provide support for parents and students

• Unify staff, parents and students in working together to foster student achievement

What is the role of the parent?

• To be a part of the decision-making process

• To help implement interventions and follow through with recommendations

• To provide additional information as needed

If you have any behavioral health concerns (anxiety, depression, drug or alcohol usage, etc.) regarding your child, please contact us.

Contact: SAP Office – 610-965-1650 ext. 21304

To make an online referral for your child, please fill out our online referral form.

Pennsylvania Student Assistance Program information – https://www.education.pa.gov/Schools/safeschools/sap-pbis/SAP/Pages/default.aspx

Communities in Schools

Communities In Schools is the nation’s largest dropout prevention organization bringing coordinated, integrated student supports to the public schools to meet the needs of at-risk students. Our mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay in school and achieve in life. Community In Schools of the Lehigh Valley has partnered with the East Penn School district for the 2020-2021 school year. Amy Williams is the site coordinator and is located in our counseling office. Please contact your guidance counselor if you have additional questions or wish to learn more about the program.

Peer Tutor Program

EHS offers peer-tutoring services to students interested in improving academically. The Peer Tutor program offers students an opportunity to receive assistance with studying and test taking skills, as well as specialized content. Tutoring is done during coinciding study halls and tutors are members of the National Honor Society. Students interested in receiving tutoring should complete a tutor request form. Forms are located in the Counseling Suite and the Library. Completed request forms should be submitted to the student's guidance counselor. 

School Based Counseling

Ask your school counselor if you feel that you or your child is in need of school based therapy provided through our local health network.  This is private, one on one counseling with licensed therapists.   Please speak with your school counselor for assistance accessing this support.