Student Assistance Coordinator/Anti-Bullying Specialist
Navigating Challenges: The Student Assistance Coordinator at Highland
The Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) at Highland High School serves as a confidential resource for students and families. The SAC provides school-wide services through social, emotional, and personal development of all students. The topics we address include, but are not limited to: challenges related to substance use, anxiety, depression, student conflicts, and other personal or social issues that may affect academic performance and overall well-being. The SAC provides individualized and group counseling, delivers prevention education programs, and facilitates referrals to appropriate community-based services and supports.
Student Assistance Program
The Student Assistance Program at Highland High School is a comprehensive, collaborative school-community initiative focused on prevention, early intervention, support, and referral services for students facing at-risk behaviors, substance use, and other mental health concerns.
The goal of the Student Assistance Program is to support students in overcoming challenges that may impact their academic success and personal well-being. Recognizing that adolescents face a range of internal and external pressures, the program equips students with the knowledge, attitudes, and skills necessary to make informed choices and develop effective coping strategies.
The Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) plays a central role in this effort, offering confidential counseling, educational resources, and referrals to appropriate community-based services. The SAC works collaboratively with students to evaluate lifestyle choices, identify negative consequences, and explore healthier alternatives. This support is a core component of the Counseling Department's mission to promote the overall well-being of every student.
To ensure a continuum of care, the SAC maintains strong partnerships with local agencies and service providers, creating a network of support for students and families.
Accessing Student Assistance Services
The SAC is available to all students and operates with an open-door policy. Students may request appointments with Ms. Rodgers electronically or by visiting the Counseling Office. Confidentiality is protected under federal law, except in cases involving:
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Threats or attempts of self-injury or suicide
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Suspected or confirmed physical/sexual abuse or neglect
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Threats of harm to others
Referrals to the SAC can be made not only through self-referral but also by teachers, administrators, parents, or peers when there are concerns about a student’s well-being.
Next Steps Counseling Program
The Next Steps Program is a short-term, early intervention counseling initiative for students and their families, facilitated by certified counselors from Nelson Counseling Services who specialize in substance use. The program consists of four weekly sessions and is provided at no cost to families. These services are initiated when a student is confirmed to have used substances or shows signs of substance abuse, the program offers timely support aimed at preventing escalation. In addition, SACs have access to a wide range of resources for students and families dealing with more complex or ongoing substance use challenges.
Harassment, Intimidation, and Bullying (H.I.B.)
The Black Horse Pike Regional School District is dedicated to maintaining a safe and supportive learning environment, free from harassment, intimidation, and bullying (H.I.B.). In accordance with the Anti-Bullying Bill of Rights, the district has designated trained staff to investigate reports of H.I.B. and to implement prevention and intervention programs.
If a student, parent, staff member, or community member becomes aware of, witnesses, or suspects a potential H.I.B. incident, they are strongly encouraged to report it immediately to the building principal.
Resources for students, parents, staff, and community members are available through the link below: