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Student Assistance Program

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What is the Student Assistance Program (SAP)?

The Pennsylvania Student Assistance Program (SAP) helps schools identify and support students in grades K–12 who may be experiencing barriers to learning. These barriers could include challenges related to mental health, alcohol, tobacco, or drug use.

Each school has a trained SAP Team, comprising school counselors, our school social worker, and other staff members. This team works together to identify students who may be struggling and connects them with support and resources to help them succeed in school.

How Does SAP Help?

SAP is not a treatment program. We do not diagnose students or refer them for treatment. Instead, we partner with you to provide helpful information and connect you with services in the school or community, if needed.

You are an important part of the team. Our goal is to support your child so they can do their best in school.

Who Can Refer a Student?

Anyone who is concerned about a student can refer them to SAP, including:

  • A parent or guardian
  • Teachers or school staff
  • Friends or classmates
  • The student themselves

However, the SAP team will not begin working with a student until we have written permission from a parent or guardian.

What Happens After I Give Permission?

Once you give your consent, the SAP Team will:

  • Work with you to create a plan that supports your child’s needs
  • Share information about school-based support and, if necessary, outside services such as counseling or mental health providers
  • Stay in touch to talk about your child’s progress
  • Respect your privacy—participation is voluntary and confidential

Why Was My Child Referred?

If your child was referred, it means someone noticed changes in their behavior, school performance, or habits that may suggest they are struggling. This concern comes from a place of care and support.

Before anything happens, the SAP team will contact you to explain the reason for the referral and request your permission to move forward. If you choose not to participate, no action will be taken. If you have questions, the SAP team is happy to talk with you before you make a decision.

What Kind of Help is Available?

SAP Teams connect families with a variety of supports that may include:

  • Check-ins or counseling during the school day
  • Risk assessments or consultations
  • Prevention or intervention programs
  • Referrals to local counseling, mental health, or substance abuse services

Need More Information?

Learn more about the Pennsylvania Student Assistance Program.

SAP Referral Form

If you are concerned about a student and would like to make a referral, please complete the form below.

Please note:

  • The name of the person making the referral will NOT be shared.
  • Due to confidentiality rules, you will not receive updates regarding the referral.
  • If you have an urgent concern, please contact the school administration or the counseling team directly.

Required

Name of individual completing this form:required
First Name
Last Name
Name of student being referred.required
First Name
Last Name
Select the student's school.required
Select the student's grade.required
Reason for the SAP referral: (click all that apply)required
i.e. declining grades, disruptive behaviors, drug/alcohol references, social withdrawal, tardiness
Have you spoken with the student regarding your concerns?required
Have you spoken with the student's parents or guardians about your concern?*required
Have you spoken with a member of the SAP team about your concern?*required