Student Assistance Coordinator's Role

The Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) aims to identify and help students and their families by encouraging healthy coping alternatives. Students are encouraged to meet with the SAC for help with but are not limited to the following: alcohol/ drug use, depression, anxiety, eating disorders, problems with peers, grief, or crisis. The SAC offers support, educational groups, information, referral services, and individual sessions. The SAC offers students a safe place to talk about any problems they may be having. Discussions are confidential and do not become part of school records. The student assistance counselor aims to help students develop healthy coping skills, make positive lifestyle choices, and avoid substance abuse problems. The SAC provides student support, substance abuse prevention, crisis intervention, and treatment referral services to all students. The SAC coordinates care with outside treatment providers.

SAC COUNSELING IS:

COLLABORATIVE: The SAC can help by working with the student directly, collaborating with the teacher(s) or booth. The SAC can also communicate with the student's family or other professionals when appropriate,

CONFIDENTIAL: Students and teachers can expect the information shared with the SAC remains confidential (unless a student is being abused or is in immediate danger).

CONVENIENT: Columbia High School has in-house Student Assistance Coordinators. Referrals can be made directly to the SAC.

What can I expect?

When you first meet with the SAC, she/he will discuss your situation with you and tell you about services that are available in the school and in the community to help you. You may choose to see her/him again and/or be referred to additional support systems, such as groups and community resources. Your participation is completely voluntary unless you are referred for violating Columbia High School’s Substance Use Policy. Your teachers care about you and are concerned about your well-being. For additional support, they may refer you to the SAC. Signs they look for are: frequent lateness, absence from class, a decline in school work, and disengagement. Friends or parents may also refer you if they notice a change in your behavior or mood.

Virtual Calm Room

Please visit our VIRTUAL CALMING ROOM for some meditation, yoga, brain break ideas, empowerment and more.

The SAC Counselors

Mrs. Dorota Martinez

dmartine@somsd.k12.nj.us x1043

Student Assistance Coordinator for grades 9th & 12th

Anti-Bullying Specialist

Mr. Michael Loupis

mloupis@somsd.k12.nj.us x 1044

Student Assistance Coordinator for grades 10th &11th

Home Instruction Coordinator (General Ed.)