Student Assistance Program

What is the Student Assistance Program?

In Pennsylvania, every middle and high school and some elementary schools have a Student Assistance Program (SAP). A SAP team, made up of school and community agency staff, is here to help you access school and community services.

Do you see your child showing any of these behaviors?

• Withdrawing from family, friends and/or school
• Changing friends; no longer spends time with old friends
• Unexplained physical injuries
• Talking about suicide
• Depressive symptoms
• Defying authority, both at home and at school
• Acting aggressively; overly obsessed with violence
• Lying
• Needing money without an explanation
• Sudden drop in grades
• Fascination/experimentation with drugs or alcohol
• Inappropriate sexual verbalization/contact

Are you concerned about your child’s reaction to:

• Recent death of a loved one
• Divorce of parents
• Family relocation
• A relationship problem
• Other traumatic event

How does my child become involved in the program?

Your school’s SAP 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. Remember, you are part of our team. 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 the Student Assistance Program. Some students are referred by teachers and other school personnel. Any school staff member, a student’s friend or family member can let the SAP team know that they are worried about someone. The students themselves can even go directly to the SAP team to ask for help. However, the SAP team will not become involved unless we receive your permission.

To refer someone for SAP, simply complete this form:

SAP Referral