Jonas Salk Middle School Page 

Welcome, Salk parents and guardians!

I am the Student Assistance Coordinator, or SAC. Numerous Salk students receive support at some point during their middle school years through the Student Assistance Program.

My role at Salk is to help those students who are experiencing personal, family, or social difficulties. Examples of common issues which may hinder a student's ability to focus on academics are: separation or divorce, remarriage, and blended families, coping with illness or loss, alcoho/other drugs, depression, anxiety, and peer conflicts. Some of the objectives of students' meetings with me are to: increase self-esteem, build coping strategies, improve decision-making skills, channel emotions constructively, and expand their support system.

Many students request to meet with me themselves. Other times, a parent, concerned friend, or staff member requests that I meet with a student. Meetings may be on an individual basis or in a small support group setting. Appointments with students are scheduled during the school day in a manner which is least disruptive to their academic schedules.

My role is also to support you, the parents and guardians. Please feel free to contact me if I can be of assistance with the challenges that you face as your child journeys through middle school. I am glad to provide you with resoures in the community if the need arises. I have great respect for your invaluable role in your child's life. 

Confidentiality is maintained in the Student Assistance Program with the utmost importance. Inthe event that your child sees a private clinician, you may sign a form authorizing me to communicate with that person. Exceptions to confidentiality must be made in certain situations if someone is in danger.

Please be aware that reported incidents of harassment intimidation, or bullying are not confidential and must be investigated. Besides my SAC role, I am also the Anti-Bullying Specialist at Salk. 

I truly look forward to working with you and your children this school year.