AllentownSchool District

Student Assistance Program

What is SAP?

The Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a multidisciplinary school team that has been professionally trained to identify issues that are a barrier to a student's learning and school success.  The SAP process provides early identification, intervention and support to address students' needs.  The SAP team can assist the student and the parents to access services within the community if the problem lies beyond the scope of the school.

What SAP is NOT:  SAP is not an emergency hotline. Does not provide immediate assistance. If you believe someone is in immediate danger of hurting themselves or others or being hurt physically or emotionally by someone else please contact Lehigh County Crisis Intervention at 610-782-3127, Northampton County Crisis Intervention at 610-252-9060, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

A SAP referral would be appropriate for a student who is:

Experiencing a decline in academic performance.

Not wanting to go to school.

No longer spending time with friends or family.

Being bullied or harassed.

Feeling emotionally overwhelmed or stressed.

Dealing with the breakup of a relationship.

Experiencing major changes in life - such as parents' divorce.

Dealing with the illness or death of someone close.

Using or experimenting with drugs or alcohol. 

SAP Referrals

Anyone can refer a student to the Student Assistance Program.  Some students are referred by teachers, school nurses, guidance counselors and other school personnel.  Also, students themselves, a friend or family member can make a referral.  You can contact your student’s assistant principal, school nurse, teacher, or guidance counselor directly or access the referral form from the medical forms page or the link on this page below to start the process.

What happens after a referral is made?

After a student is referred, the team gathers specific information regarding the student's academic performance, attendance and disciplinary records, and observable behaviors from the school's professional staff.  If this information suggests that action is necessary, parental and student consent is sought.  If the student and a parent provide consent, the team then works with them to access the help and support that are needed to overcome the obstacles to success.



For more information, contact your school counselor.

For emergency mental health services - Lehigh County 24hr Crisis Intervention: 610-782-3127 or your closest hospital emergency room

For a drug and alcohol evaluation - Lehigh Valley Drug and Alcohol Intake Unit 610-432-2228

For community resources - Lehigh County Department of Human Services Information & Referral 610-782-3200