SPRING-FORD HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

WHO?

The SFHS Student Assistance Team is a group of counselors and teachers who have been specially trained to identify, support and provide referrals for students who are experiencing difficulty. Counselors from Creative Health Services and Spring-Ford Counseling Services are also on the SAP Team.

WHAT?

The goal of the SAP Team is to identify, intervene, support and assist in the referral of students who are dealing with issues which pose a barrier to their learning and school success. These include substance abuse, violence prevention, eating disorders, grief and loss, youth depression, and problems in the family.

HOW IS A REFERRAL MADE?

If you are concerned about a student, a friend or even yourself, complete the initial referral form that is found in the IPCs, the Guidance Office, the Media Center and the Health Suite. Please report specific, observable behaviors. Referrals will remain confidential. Place the completed form in the locked box in the health suite or deliver it in a sealed envelope to one of the SAP team members. You may call the Guidance Office (610-705-6001) with a referral.

WHAT DO I LOOK FOR?

Look for observable behaviors in any of the following areas: health, attendance, behavior, or academic performance. Here are some signs of possible problems:

Drop in grades
Depression
Poor hygiene
Frequent conversations about alcohol and drugs
Discussion of parties where drugs and alcohol are present
Frequent absences
Frequent lateness

Sleeping in Class

Bloodshot eyes
Crying
Defiance
Mood Swings
Decline in Motivation
Loss of interest in usual activities
Significant weight change.

HOW DOES THE SAP PROCESS WORK?

A referral is made by a student, teacher, coach, or school staff member and received by the SAP team
The SAP team gathers data about the referred student in the areas of academic performance, school behavior, health, and attendance
Data is compiled by the team
An intervention plan is developed and initiated. The team will make a recommendation to the student, parents and staff regarding ways to aid the student and increase his/her chances of success. The team will identify existing school programs and any available community resources.
The SAP Team monitors the student’s progress and provides support and postvention.

MENTORING AND SUPPORT GROUPS

The SAP team also provides students with some unique opportunities to attain help in dealing with specific issues. One way is through a SAP supported mentoring program. Support groups are also available for grief, family issues, anger management, self-esteem, and teen parenting. If you know of any students who may benefit from a mentor or from participation in one of these groups, please notify any member of the SAP team, or contact the Guidance Office (610-705-6001).

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