• What is the Student Assistance Program (SAP)? 

    A SAP team made up of school and agency staff and 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 Northwest Pennsylvania Collegiate Academy 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 information and you make the choice(s) that best fit your needs and wishes.  As the parent/guardian you are an important part of the team. 

    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
    • Unexplained drop in grades
    • Excessive worry and preoccupation with things they cant control
    • Experimenting with alcohol or drugs

    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
    • COVID related Stress

  • Frequently Asked Questions

    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.  The child can even go directly to the SAP team 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 you give your written parent 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 regarding your child’s referral to the program.  Before a SAP team member talks to your child, you will be asked to sign a permission form.  The  SAP team will work with you and your child throughout the process.  As a parent, your knowledge and thoughts about your child 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 a SAP team member.     

    How Do I Contact the SAP Team?

    If you have any questions about SAP or you feel that your child may need help, call your child’s school 874-6300 and ask to speak with any of the following team members: 

    • Patti Palotas, SAP Chairperson and Behavioral Health Counselor
    • Rob Causgrove- Administrator
    • Erica King, Guidance Counselor
    • Dan Nielsen, Guidance Counselor
    • Cheryl Geist Brozell, School Nurse
    • Other faculty members that make up the team include Christine Balsiger, Elena Parthenakis, Chad Teixeira, Michele Stubenbort, Raven Jones and Carol Niedzwiecki.