The mission of the Student Assistance Program is to identify, intervene, refer, and monitor students having school related problems due to alcohol, drug, and/or mental health issues. 

The primary objective of the Student Assistance Team (SAT) is to ensure that West Shore students receive help in order for them to function successfully in the classroom. The core of the program is the Student Assistance Team, which is comprised of teachers, administrators, school counselors, school nurses and outside consultants trained to work with students.

The Student Assistance Team is committed to the confidentiality of student’s concerns. However, in most circumstances, the team has found it beneficial to the student’s welfare to include parents/ guardians from the beginning of the process.
How does the Student Assistance Program work?

The Student Assistance Team receives referrals from parents, students, teachers, administration and other concerned school personnel. Referrals are made by contacting any member of the Student Assistance Team or by completing a confidential form (see link below).

After receiving a referral, team members gather information from staff members who have had contact with the student. The parents/guardians are contacted and asked to provide written consent. An informal team meeting is convened to determine the status of the referral.

Recommendations could include a conference with a Student Assistance Team member or request for an assessment provided by a trained specialist from a drug and alcohol agency or mental health agency. These specialists work with team members to recommend appropriate action for the individual student. The team continues to monitor and provide support for the student throughout the process.

Student Assistance works most effectively when the referred student, parent/guardian, Team members and agency counselors work cooperatively to support the student.