• The School District of the City of Erie

    Student Assistance Program

    References to Services Provided

    The Student Assistance Program is provided to assist students in overcoming any barriers to learning that they may face. The following information is a reference that briefly explains the services provided by the Student Assistance Program. When completing the parent/student permission form, please refer to this guideline. There are various services offered and indicating the services requested is a requirement. This will serve as an explanation of the services that are offered.

    1. Request for SAP team consultation/information gathering – this particular service involves retrieving information about a student from his/her teachers, counselors, nurse, administrators, coaches and probation officer. This allows for a large picture of the student’s behaviors, peer interactions and academic studies to be explored. This process enables the student assistance team to have a focus.
    2. Support and intervention with school and student services staff – these services involve conducting brief interventions and/or counseling, group support, behavior management training and mediations.
    3. Mental health assessment and individual support – these services may include completing a psychosocial assessment in which information is gathered regarding areas of concern from both parents/guardians and the child. If further interventions are needed, beyond what can be provided at school, the child could be referred to an outside agency to address his/her needs. Parent permission/consent is required to complete this process.
    4. Drug and alcohol assessment and counseling – the Student Assistance Program partners with Pyramid regarding this particular area. An individual assessment can be completed and recommendations will result. In school or out of school counseling may be suggested upon completion of the assessment.
    5. Group support – a student may participate in group counseling in areas such as anger management, self-esteem, social skills, grief, transition and other groups that are appropriate for a student’s particular needs. This is situational and pending the population of students meeting the need for group.
    6. Parent/Guardian consultation only – the student’s parent/guardian can request to set up a meeting with a SAP team member should situations arise that requires consultation. This may be conducted in person or by phone, whichever is most appropriate.
    7. SAP participation is declined – the parent/guardian does not give his/her permission for the Student Assistance Program to assist in meeting the child’s needs. A parent/guardian can change his/her mind at any time and contact the school.

    Note:

    • The Student Assistance Program recommends all parents/guardians check the service labeled “Request for SAP team consultation/information gathering”.
    • All SAP services are voluntary, confidential and free of charge.
    • Parent participation is welcome and encouraged in all SAP services.

     

    Building Educational Support Team (BEST)

    BEST is a process used to support struggling students after interventions have been tried, progress monitored, and found to be unsuccessful based on data collected by the teacher.

    Reasons a student may be referred, but not limited to the following:

    • Students who are failing academically
    • Students with behavior and social skills that interfere with their success in school
    • Student whose life circumstances interfere with their success in school, such as a death in the family or a serious illness in the family
    • Students with serious attendance/truancy issues

     

    The Student Assistance Program (SAP) can help children experiencing barriers to learning.

    A Guide for Parents/Guardians

    What Is 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 Joanna Connell 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 can’t 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

     

    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.

    Privacy - The SAP team information is completely confidential and the team will respect you and your child's privacy at all times. If you would like more information on SAP, go to the PA website at www.pnas.org

    Referral forms are available in the School Counselor’s office. 

     

    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 874-6785 and ask to speak with any of the following team members:

    Jennifer Schamber - BEST/SAP Chairperson & School Counselor

    Jesse Williams - Principal

    Jada Best - Assistant Principal

    Marc Fiorelli -School Psychologist

    Vanessa Webb - School Nurse

    Cara Laird - Behavioral Specialist

    Kimberly Fachetti & Cyndi Pristello - Schoolwide Specialists

    Karen Dabrowski - Mental Health Specialist