On behalf of the Association of Student Assistance Professionals of New Jersey

ASAP-NJ), I am writing to you today to alert you of a potentially catastrophic situation that is occurring in our schools state-wide.

Due to the devastating effects of massive budget cuts in every school district in the state, we have been notified that numerous school districts, from north to south Jersey, are eliminating or reducing the student assistance coordinators currently employed.

This cut in personnel means that there will be no one in the schools professionally equipped to deal with students experiencing substance abuse, mental health issues and other life crises.

This impacts every child, because SACs serve as a resource to staff, administrators and students not at risk as well. Parents will have no one to go to for support, advice and resources to get their child the best help possible in and out of school.

Our children deserve quality education and this includes student assistance services which enable them to reach their maximum potential academically.

Please let your school boards know that you value student assistance programs that are facilitated by trained, certified student assistance professionals.
Kelly Brown
Student Assistance Coordinator
Collier High School
Marlboro