STUDENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SAP) - PROGRAM OVERVIEW
The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a systematic, professional, and realistic response to students who are having trouble not only in their academic performance, but also with their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being. This is a state mandated program for all secondary level schools in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The Ringgold High School Student Assistance Team members 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. Rather, we will provide you with information and you make the choices. Parents/Guardians of the identified student, as well as the student, are actively engaged in the SAP process. Strict rules of confidentiality apply to all phases of the Student Assistance Program. Parent/Guardian permission is required for a student to participate in this program.
“Even as kids reach adolescence, they need more than ever for us to watch over them. Adolescence is not about letting go. It's about hanging on during a very bumpy ride.” Ron Taffel
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q: Who coordinates this program?
A: SAP is coordinated by a group of the professional staff that are concerned and are trained to recognize at risk behaviors which impede on students’ academic, social, and personal development.
Q: Who can make a referral to the SAP Team?
A: Referral can be made by concerned adults, peers, school administrators, faculty/staff, or by the student themselves.
Q: How is the referral made?
A: A referral is made by contacting any member of the SAP Team, contacting administration, and/or school counselor with your concern.
Q: When is a referral made to the SAP Team?
A: A referral can be made when there are concerns about attendance, academics, behavior, and/or health that may require additional support for the student.
Q: What happens after a student is referred?
- A: The SAP Team assists staff with the identification and description of the behavior that may be a barrier to learning and may leave the child at risk.
- Information used to gain an understating of the student’s current situation and possible solutions to the identified concern about the student is collected through informational checklists, school records, meeting with the student, and parental contact.
- Once the information is gathered and it is determined that more support is needed, the SAP Team may make referrals to community or private agencies for help.
- The SAP team maintains communication and follows-up with the team members, parents, and referral sources for the identified student.
- The SAP Team will provide necessary support to the identified student to help make the necessary changes an easy transition. Support is essential in the student’s success. Additional supports may be offered to assist the student such as educational support groups.
“Never believe that a few caring people can't change the world. For, indeed, that's all who ever have.” -Margaret Mead
If you would like to print a copy of the information above, click HERE to print our SAP Brochure, the brochure also has all the SAP Team Members as well.