Mrs. Shirley Avilés, Student Assistance Counselor

732-291-1380 ext. 2737 – AvilesS@middletownk12.org

What is the Student Assistance Program?

The Student Assistance Program provides a comprehensive array of prevention, intervention and support services for students who may be experiencing personal, family or substance abuse related problems. The program provides confidential counseling and referral service available to any student. The goals of the program are to help students develop healthy coping skills, make positive lifestyle choices and avoid substance abuse problems. Staff, parents, peers or students themselves can make referrals.

Services to students:

¨ Substance abuse assessments

¨ Peer support groups and individual counseling for issues such as dealing with grief, divorce, bullying, social skills development, and other school related stressors

¨ Clubs: Bayshore Peer Leaders, REBEL 2, and Peer Mediation

¨ Referral information about community resources for students and their families

Services to staff:

¨ Consultation with teachers, guidance and administration regarding concerns about student behavior and progress

¨ Education on school policies regarding substance use, suicide and threat assessments

¨ Information on mental health issues, drug and alcohol awareness and community resources

¨ Health class visits to raise awareness of dangers associated with alcohol, tobacco and other drugs

Coordination of substance abuse prevention and healthy lifestyles programs: See Calendar