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Student Assistance Program (SAP)

The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a confidential, school-based process designed to help students who may be experiencing barriers to learning. These barriers may include concerns related to mental health, behavior, emotional well-being, substance use, or significant changes in a student’s functioning at school or at home.

SAP is not a disciplinary process, nor does it provide diagnoses. Instead, SAP helps schools and families work together to identify concerns early and connect students to appropriate supports.

How SAP Works

Each school has a trained SAP team made up of school staff such as administrators, counselors, teachers, nurses, and support personnel. The team meets regularly to review referrals, gather information, and determine next steps to support students.
 

Hampton Township School District partners with Western Psychiatric Hospital (WPH) to support the SAP process. A WPH SAP Liaison works with the school SAP team to:

  • Review concerns shared through the referral process
  • Conduct a confidential screening, when appropriate and with parent/guardian consent
  • Provide recommendations to the SAP team regarding next steps and possible supports

These recommendations help guide the school’s response and may include school-based strategies, community resources, or outside services.

When Should a Parent Consider SAP?

Parents or guardians may want to initiate a SAP referral if they notice changes such as:
 
  • Increased anxiety, sadness, or emotional withdrawal

  • Behavioral concerns at school or home

  • Declining academic performance

  • Difficulty coping with stress, relationships, or life changes

  • Concerns related to substance use or risk-taking behaviors

You do not need to wait for a crisis to ask for help. Early communication is encouraged.

How Parents Can Make a SAP Referral
Parents and guardians may initiate a SAP referral by:
 
  1. Contacting the school counselor, administrator, or school psychologist, or
  2. Requesting a SAP referral through the school office
Once a referral is made:
 
  • A SAP team member will contact you to discuss your concerns
  • Parental/guardian consent is required before any screening occurs
  • You will be kept informed and involved throughout the process

SAP is a collaborative process- families are essential partners in supporting students.

Confidentiality and Family Partnership

All SAP referrals and discussions are handled with care and confidentiality, in accordance with state guidelines. The goal of SAP is to support students while respecting family input, student dignity, and privacy.
 

Questions?

If you have questions about SAP or would like to make a referral, please contact your child’s school counselor or building administrator.

The Student Assistance Program is part of Hampton Township School District’s Comprehensive Student Services Plan (Chapter 12).