Student Assistance Counseling (SAC)
At Paterson Charter School for Science & Technology, we recognize the critical role that mental health and socialemotional wellness play in student success. Our Student Assistance Counseling (SAC) program provide confidential support for students in grades 2-12, helping them navigate challenges that may impact their well-being and academic performance.
What is Student Assistance Counseling?
The Student Assistance Program & Student Assistance Counseling (SAC) at PCSST is designed to support, not punish students who may be struggling with substance use, emotional challenges, or other personal difficulties. Our goal is to help students make healthier choices by identifying negative consequences and providing guidance toward positive change. CLR|2025 If needed, our Student Assistance Counselors (SACs) can connect students and families with community resources, outpatient counseling, or inpatient treatment options for additional support. But the Student Assistance Program is about more than just substance use; our Student Assistance Program works closely with families, teachers, and community partners to ensure every student has access to the support they need to succeed—both in school and in life. A Student Assistance Counselor (SAC) is a trained mental health professional who provides prevention, intervention, support, and referral services for students facing:
✅ Substance use prevention & intervention
✅ Peer and social challenges
✅ Self-esteem and self-harm concerns
✅ Suicide prevention
✅ Mental health concerns
✅ Relationship issues & domestic violence … and more.
Our SACs work directly with students, collaborate with teachers, and communicate with families (when appropriate) to ensure students receive the support they need.
How Does the SAC Helps?
At PCSST, Student Assistance Coordinators provide a safe, nonjudgmental space for students to express themselves, build positive relationships, and develop skills to make healthy decisions.
Support Services Include:
🔹 One-on-one counseling for personal struggles, stress, or crisis situations.
🔹 Prevention & intervention for substance use, self-harm, and high-risk behaviors.
🔹 Collaboration with families to ensure student success.
🔹 Referrals to community resources for additional mental health support.
Federal Regulation 42 CFR and New Jersey Administrative Code 6A:16-3.2
Building a Positive School Climate
Research shows that when students feel safe, connected, and valued, they are more likely to succeed academically and make positive life choices. Our SACs work closely with students, families, and staff to create a supportive school culture where every student can thrive.
Community Connections & Resources
Our SACs partner with local agencies and mental health services to ensure students and families have access to comprehensive support beyond the school setting.
State & District Compliance
Our program follows New Jersey Administrative Code (NJSA 18A:40, NJAC 6A:16-3.1), which requires schools to have policies for student mental health and substance use concerns.
Our SACs receive specialized training in:
✔ Identifying signs and symptoms of substance use.
✔ Providing education and early intervention services.
✔ Connecting students and families with community-based treatment and support.
✔ Ensuring compliance with NJ DOE regulations on student wellness.
Initiatives
Promoting a Drug-Free Future
Each year at the end of October, PCSST proudly participates in Red Ribbon Week, a nationwide campaign dedicated to raising awareness about drug prevention and promoting healthy choices. Throughout the week, students take part in engaging activities, discussions, and events designed to strengthen our community’s commitment to living drug-free. Red Ribbon Week began in 1985 to honor DEA Agent Enrique Camarena, who lost his life while working undercover to stop drug trafficking in Mexico. In response, families across the U.S. began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to drug awareness and prevention. This week is an important opportunity for students, educators, and families to come together, learn, and take a stand against substance abuse.
