I'm Mrs. Hand, formerly Ms. Strassel.  I am the Maple Shade Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC).  I am part of the student services team located in the high school.  I primarily work with students in grades 7-12.  The Student Assistance Program is here to assist in the prevention, intervention, support and referral services of students with high-risk behaviors.  This includes alcohol use, substance use, tobacco or vaping, or other addictive behaviors.  Furthermore, it also assists students dealing with mental health issues and a wide variety of other areas including, but not limited to, grief or family issues.  All students are covered under federal law which grants them confidentiality with the exception of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, possible harm to self or someone else, reports of abuse or neglect, or reports of being involved in illicit, potentially dangerous activities.  Students will be referred to the Student Assistance Program through an administrator or their School Counselor.  

Common Issues Students Speak to the SAC for...
- Anxiety
- Stress
- Anger
- Self-esteem
- Grief
- Home - related issues (arguments with household members, feeling misunderstood, miscommunication issues, etc.)
- Family changes (death, divorce, sickness, blended family, new sibling, etc.)
- LGBTQIA+ related issues
- Substance use issues for self or someone else
- Mandated sessions due to suspension-related issue