Student Assistance Program
The Student Assistance Program is designed to address student problems that interfere with learning and/or are harmful to self or others. To the extent that many of these problems manifest in a school environment, the SAP should influence the entire school system, classroom and extra-curricular activities, students, staff, and family.
The SAP will provide a structured approach to students troubled by physical, psychological, educational, and/or problems arising from substance use and abuse. The SAP provides a structured liaison between the school and parents and outside agencies. The SAP strives to intervene at the earliest stage of dysfunctional behaviors. The SAP seeks to help the student find the best and most appropriate assistance. It is the intent of the SAP to work cooperatively with parents/guardians to resolve student problems as they relate to dysfunctional behavior that may result in academic difficulties, disciplinary action, or health problems. Parents and guardians will be contacted as soon as possible when appropriate. All records and discussions of personal issues discussed with the SAP coordinator or team will be handled in a confidential manner and will not become part of a student’s cumulative file.
The SAP does not alter or replace existing administrative policy or disciplinary procedures, contractual agreements, or state law, but serves to assist the student by providing assistance before their behavior puts them in harms way.
The SAP is available to all students. Students are encouraged to seek assistance to determine if personal problems or choices are causing unsatisfactory performance in academic or extracurricular activities or endangering their health or safety or that of others. A teacher, staff member, parent, or fellow student who is concerned about a student is encouraged to access the SAP by filling out a referral form. The following is a list of reasons why someone might consider utilizing the process:
Overly concerned about getting good grades or about appearance
Declining or dramatic drop in grades
Inattentive in class or at activities
Frequent absences or tardiness
Disruptive behavior
Change in peer group
Change in appearance
Engaging in unhealthy or dangerous activities
The referral forms are available on the JSerra guidance counseling website. All life threatening situations call for urgent action, in which case you should contact 911 Emergency immediately. Please, contact the Vice Principal of student affairs, the guidance counselor, or other adult immediately. If you need to speak to someone about the process please contact Nancy Melbourne via
email or telephone at (949) 493-9039.
