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Student Assistant Program

About the Student Assistance Program

A SAP team made up of school and agency staff is available to help families access school and community services for your child. In Pennsylvania, every school district is required to have a plan for identifying and assisting students who experience barriers to learning. Our school's Student Assistance Program team consists of many dedicated professionals including teachers, counselors, specialists and principals.

The SAP team will help families find services and assistance within the school and, if needed, in the community. The SAP team doe snot diagnose, treat or refer children for treatment. The team provides families with information to make the choice(s) that best fit their needs and wishes. Parents/guardians are an important part of the team.

Warning Signs

A student may be eligible for the Student Assistance Program if he/she is exhibiting any of the following behaviors:

Withdrawing from family, friends and/or activities
Changing friends
Unexplained physical injuries
Feeling sad
Talking about suicide
Defying authority, both at home and school
Acting aggressively
Hitting
Lying
Needing money without a good explanation
Declining grades
Experimenting with alcohol or drugs

Additional concerns could include reactions to:

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

Becoming Involved in the SAP Program

Anyone can refer a child to the SAP team. Some students are referred by teachers or other school personnel. A friend or family member can also let the SAP team know that they are worried about someone. The child can even go directly to his/her guidance counselor to ask for help.

Schools will gather information to determine how a student is doing in their classes. However, the SAP team will not proceed unless a parent or legal guardian gives written permission. Once permission is received, the SAP team will work with parents/guardians to develop a plan of action to help the child achieve success in school. Participation in the program is voluntary.

Referrals to the Student Assistance Program

A SAP team member will contact the parent/guardian regarding the child's referral to the program. Before a SAP team member talks to the child, the parent/guardian will be asked to sign a permission form. The SAP team will work with the parent/guardian and the child throughout the process. The knowledge and thoughts of parents/guardians will be helpful in developing a plan of action.

If you need more information before making a decision about SAP, please feel free to talk to your child's guidance counselor or other team member.

Privacy

The SAP team information is completely confidential and the team will respect the privacy of children and families at all times.

It is the policy of the Keystone Oaks School District not to discriminate on the basis of race, sex, religion, color, national origin, age, handicap or limited English proficiency in its educational programs, services, facilities, activities or employment policies as required under state and federal laws.

Equal Opportunities for Success
2015-2016

The mission of the Keystone Oaks School District is to create and maintain a learning community that encourages all students to achieve their maximum potential.