Drug expulsions drop at high school
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Referrals to the Student Assistance Program (SAP), which assists students who may be affected by their own or someone else’s alcohol or drug use, also saw a slight decline last school year.
“Last year’s numbers are encouraging, though the drug problem continues. It’s such a thief and it’s non-discriminating,” said Seals. “Last year though we did see more referrals from the students themselves than ever before and that’s good. The kids know there’s a problem.”
Started eight years ago and funded largely though federal grants, SAP was begun to provide drug prevention and intervention educational programs for high school students.
Upon referral to SAP by a parent, teacher or fellow student, referred students are interviewed by SAP staff regarding the concern mentioned in the referral. If necessary, and Seals said about half of those referred are in dangerous situations, recommendations are made to involve the student in an in-school educational/support group or a referral is made to the appropriate community resource.
Though helping students deal with drug-related problems continues to be SAP’s main focus, Seals said it also helps students with other types of problems.
Last year, 18 high school students received help through the program’s three anger management groups. Additionally, 14 students gained help though a grief and loss therapy group, four benefited from an eating disorders group and nine attended a self-mutilation group.
For all of the numbers and statistics though, Seals said ultimately she doesn’t work in numbers.
“If a kid doesn’t die it’s a wonderful year. Other than that, it’s hard to prove success. There really are no bad kids, just ones who live in horrible situations and those who make bad decisions,” she said. “Our job is to help them make good decisions and help give them a future.”