The core of the Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a 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: 
* 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, through the “Safe2SaySomething” reporting system at 1-844-723-2729, 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.
* Changes in interests (school and community)

* 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.
* Experimenting with or using alcohol or other drugs.

SAP Referrals

Anyone can refer a student to the Student Assistance Program. Some students are referred by teachers and other school personnel. Also, students themselves, a friend or family member can make a referral. You can go directly to a team member or access the referral form from 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.

William Penn SAP Team Members:

Ms. Sue Elliott- Assistant Principal William Penn Building

Jennifer Carter - School Counselor
Andrea Dyer - School Counselor
Linda Kubinsky- Mental Health Specialist

Kristen Braun - Special Education Teacher
Ferdinand Surita, Ed.D.
Ashley Flores-Behavior Specialist
Nicole Wentz-Behavior Specialist
Kevin Boucher-Teacher
Alisha Keiser-Teacher
Ed Rothrock-Teacher
Thomas Golden-Teacher