Clarion County Career Center


(814) 226-4391

447 Career Lane Shippenville PA 16254

SAP (Student Assistance Program)


The Pennsylvania Student Assistance Program (SAP) is a team process used to mobilize school resources to remove barriers to learning. SAP is designed to identify academic, social, attendance, substance use, mental health, and other concerns which pose a barrier to student success. The primary goal of the Student Assistance Program is to help students overcome these barriers so that they may achieve, advance, and remain in school.


​Clarion County Career Center's SAP team made up of school and agency staff is available to help you access school and community services for your child.

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Bridget O’Brien, Cooperative Ed/Adult Education Coordinator bobrien@clarioncte.org
Brandy Girt, LPN, Health & Safety & Attendance Officer bgirt@clarioncte.org
Traci WIldeson, Director of Career & Technical Education twildeson@clarioncte.org

SAP Referral Form

In Pennsylvania, every school district is required to have a plan for identifying and assisting students who experience barriers to learning.  

The SAP team will help you find services and assistance within the school, and if needed, in the community.   We do not diagnose, treat, or refer your child for treatment.  We will provide you with information and you make the choice(s) that best fit your needs and wishes.  As the parent/guardian you are an important part of the team.  

How Does My Child Become Involved in the SAP Program?

  • Anyone can refer a child to the SAP team.  Some students are referred by teachers or other school personnel. 
  • A friend or family member can also let the SAP team know that they are worried about someone. 
  • The child can even go directly to the SAP team to ask for help.  Schools will gather information to determine how a student is doing in their classes. 


The SAP team will not proceed unless you give your written parent permission.  Once permission is received, the SAP team will work with you to develop a plan of action to help your child achieve success in school. 


Participation in the program is voluntary. 

Do You See Your Child Showing Any of These Behaviors? 

  • Withdrawing from family, friends, and/or activities
  • Changing friends
  • Unexplained physical injuries
  • Feeling sad
  • Talking about suicide
  • Defying authority, both at home and school
  • Acting aggressively
  • Hitting
  • Lying
  • Needing money without a good explanation
  • Declining grades
  • Experimenting with alcohol or drugs
  • Back-talking staff


Are You Concerned about Your Child’s 
Reaction to...?

  • Recent death of a loved one
  • Divorce of parents
  • Family relocation
  • A relationship problem
  • Bullying
  • Another traumatic event