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SAP - Student Assistance Program


 

Student Assistance Program

at PVMS WEST

A Guide for Parents/Guardians

What Is SAP? 

A SAP team, made up of school and agency staff, is available to help you 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.

The 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.  We will provide you with the information you need to make informed decision(s) that best fit your child’s/family’s needs. 

 

Resources

Do You See Your Child Showing Any of These 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

· Back-talking staff

Are You Concerned about Your Child’s Reaction to...?

· Recent death of a loved one

· Divorce of parents

· Family relocation

· A relationship problem

· Bullying

· Other traumatic event

How Does My Child Become 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.  Even the child can go directly to the SAP team to ask for help.  Schools then gather information to determine how a student is doing in his/her classes.  However, the SAP team will not proceed unless a parent/guardian gives permission. .

 

 



Once permission is received, the SAP team will work with you to develop a plan of action to help your child achieve success in school.  Participation in the program is voluntary.

What If Someone Has Referred My Child to SAP?

A SAP team member will contact you if your child is referred to the program.  Before a SAP team member talks to your child, you will be asked to sign a permission form.  The SAP case manager will be assigned to work with you and your child throughout the process.  As a parent, your knowledge and thoughts about your child will be instrumental in developing a plan of action.  If you need more information before making a decision about SAP, please feel free to talk to a SAP team member.    

 

How Do I Contact the SAP Team?

If you have any questions about SAP or feel that your child may need help, call your child’s school and ask to speak with any of the following team members: 

Donna Milligan

Ryan Creeden

William Montgomery

Lee Militello

Cindy Lind

Krystal Glennon

Colleen McGuigan

Kathy Todd

Marie Scaglione

Tina Glanski

Danielle Emers

Tracy Griffin

Sean Murphy

Trevor Sands

Kathleen Pickard

Jen Moylan