Mission Statement: The goal of the Upper Perkiomen School District counseling program is to facilitate the academic, personal, social and emotional development of each student. Through developmentally appropriate lessons, which are proactive and preventative in nature, enhanced with individual and small group counseling when applicable, students are given the tools to make informed academic choices and become life long learners. Counselors work with teachers, administrators, parents and other school personnel to create an environment conducive to learning and to promote the development of positive self esteem and healthy behaviors. We are committed to supporting students in realizing their potential and enabling them to become connected, caring, and contributing members of our society.
If you are in need of IMMEDIATE help:
- Call 9-1-1 or go to your local area hospital emergency department
- Call Mobile Crisis Support: 1-855-634-HOPE (4673)
- Call Berks County Crisis Support - 610-379-2007
- Call the Peer Support Talk Line: 855-715-8255 (available daily 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.)
- Call the Teen Talk Line: 866-825-5856 or text 215-703-8411
- Call the National Suicide Prevention
School Counseling
- District Contact Information
- School Counselors
- Student Assistance Counselors
- Student Assistance Program (SAP)
- Act 339: K-12 School Counseling Plan
- Counseling FAQs
- Support Resources for Families
- Board Policies for School Counseling
District Contact Information
Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Andrea Farina
afarina@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2466
Fax: 215-679-7962
Mrs. Carol Giblin
cgiblin@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2468
Fax: 215-679-7962
ldicesare@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2453
Fax: 215-679-7962
School Counselors
High School Counselors
Scott Searfoss:
- Email: sdsearfoss@upsd.org
-
Phone 215-679-5935 ext. 7120
Leanne LeGendre:
- Email: llegendre@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-5935 ext. 7122
John Gunning
- Email: jgunning@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-5935 ext. 7121
Middle School Counselors
Theresa Schlatterer
- Email: tschlatterer@upsd.org
- Phone: 267-313-4800 ext. 6511
Anne Borovik
- Email: acborovik@upsd.org
- Phone: 267-313-4800 ext. 6512
Elementary Counselors
Karen Shetler (Marlborough)
- Email: kshelter@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-541-7299 ext. 7219
Jeff Bibus (Hereford)
- Email: jbibus@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-4151 ext. 3409
Sue Kenna (4th-5th Center)
- Email: skenna@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-6288 ext. 4012
Student Assistance Counselors
Student Assistance Counselors
Kaitlin Mayson (K-3)
- Email: kmayson@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-4151 ext. 3405
Meghan Meikrantz (K-3)
- mwmeikrantz@upsd.org
Kyra Naugle (4-5)
- Email: Knaugle@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-4151 ext. 3405
Katrina Harman (6-8)
- Email: Kharman@upsd.org
- Phone: 267-313-4800 ext. 6506
Kimberly Kelly (9-12)
- Email: Kkelly@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679- 5935 ext. 7127
There are many community resources available to assist students and families with various needs they may have at home or school.
The role of your school's Student Assistance Counselor
- Connecting students and families to community supports and resources
- Individual counseling
- Group counseling
- SAP member (Student Assistance Program)
- MTSS member (Multi-Tiered System of Supports
Student Assistance Program (SAP)
Student Assistance Program Description
The Student Assistance Program is a state-mandated K-12 program designed to assist school personnel in identifying issues including alcohol, tobacco, other drugs, and mental health issues which pose a barrier to a student's success.
Anyone may make a SAP referral. Referrals may be made anonymously except in the case of teachers or staff. It is expected that teachers and staff identify themselves when making a referral when working in their professional capacity. This information is confidential and not shared with the student.
What is SAP?
Student Assistance Programs are state mandated in all secondary schools in Pennsylvania. These programs identify issues, including alcohol, drugs and others, which pose a barrier to a student’s learning and school success.
Student Assistance is not a treatment program; but rather, a process using techniques to mobilize school resources to remove barriers. Where the problem is beyond the scope of the school, this program assists the parent/student with information so they may access services within the community.
REFERRAL PROCEDURES
Students can be referred by school staff, parents, peers or self-referral. Once a referral is made, data (limited to observable behaviors) is gathered with parent permission and shared with the parents and team. Data may also be shared with the student and parents. Parent-child cooperation is considered the first step in addressing the problem. Students who sincerely seek help to avoid chemical abuse through SAP are not subjected to disciplinary action. All data collected is considered confidential.
Building SAP Referral Forms
Act 339: K-12 School Counseling Plan
The Upper Perkiomen School District Chapter 339 Plan Overview
What is the Chapter 339 Plan?
Pennsylvania requires all school districts to have a K-12 School Counseling Plan as part of Chapter 339. This plan addresses the importance of career planning for all students related to labor market projections and workforce needs. The Upper Perkiomen School District's Chapter 339 Plan aligns with the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Academic Standards for Career Education and Work. There are four main standards concentrations categories. They include Career Awareness and Preparation (discovering self-awareness, interests and relationships), Career Acquisition (getting a job), Career Retention and Advancement (keeping a job), and Entrepreneurship (creating a job).
Why is the Chapter 339 Plan Important?
In accordance with the Upper Perkiomen School District’s mission statement, the Chapter 339 Plan will develop a fluid process and reference for the district’s students. Equally, it will aid the district’s school counselors' efforts in helping students focus on academic, career and social/emotional development throughout their elementary and secondary school experience. This working document will help frame efforts toward the Upper Perkiomen School District students’ sustained preparation and success in school while preparing them to lead fulfilling, post graduate lives as responsible members of society.
When did the Chapter 339 Plan Process begin and what will Its Evolvement Entail?
The Upper Perkiomen School District began this process in 2016. Amid the process, there were professional development opportunities via six full-day training sessions from the Pennsylvania Department of Education. The initial Chapter 339 Plan received the School Board of Directors’ approval in October, 2018. Equally, the plan will need School Board re-approval every five years.
Who is involved in the Chapter 339 Plan’s Process?
School district and building level administration, as well as the Upper Perkiomen School District K-12 Counseling Staff have assisted with the development of the district’s Chapter 339 Plan. Additionally, the school district’s 339 Advisory Council meets twice per school year to discuss the development and sustainability of the Chapter 339 Plan. This Advisory Council consists of educator, parent, student, business/community, and postsecondary stakeholder members. The Upper Perkiomen School District’s Counseling Team also continues to meet regularly during the professional development trainings and otherwise to update our 339 plan.
Where will the Chapter 339 Plan’s Process be in the Future?
The Upper Perkiomen K-12 Counseling Team and associated 339 Advisory Council will review and update the Chapter 339 Plan annually or every three to five years, depending on the respective review’s requirements. The Plan’s Program (SMART) goals that were developed for each level (elementary, middle school and high school) will serve as a focus area every year for the counseling staff.
Please click below to view the current board approved ACT339 School Counseling Plan.
ACT 339 School Counseling Plan
Counseling FAQs
Support Resources for Families
Board Policies for School Counseling
Suicide Prevention & Awareness
- Prevention and Awareness
- Suicide Warning Signs
- How to Help Someone In Crisis
- Suicide Myths & Facts
- Suicide Prevention Resources
- Safe2Say
- School Board Policy Suicide Awareness, Prevention and Response
Prevention and Awareness
According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is a serious public health problem that can have lasting harmful effects on individuals, families and communities. Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States. It was responsible for more than 47,000 deaths in 2017.
While suicide can affect an individual of any age, it is a problem that affects many young people. Suicide is the second leading cause of death for people 10 to 34 years of age.
If you are concerned about yourself or someone you know, please tell a school administrator, counselor, teacher, parent or trusted adult.
Do NOT keep this a secret, ask for help!
UPSD'S STRATEGIES FOR SUPPORTING STUDENTS & FAMILIES
The Strategies for Supporting Students & Families document includes counselor contact information, local supports & resources, time-management strategies, stress-management strategies, other external resources and more.
Suicide Warning Signs
These signs may mean someone is at risk for suicide. Risk is greater if a behavior is new or has recently increased in frequency or intensity, and if it seems related to a painful event, loss, or change.
- Talking about wanting to die or kill oneself
- Looking for ways to kill oneself, such as searching online or buying a gun
- Talking about feeling hopeless or having no reason to live
- Talking about feeling trapped or in unbearable pain
- Talking about being a burden to others
- Increasing the use of alcohol or drugs
- Acting anxious or agitated, or behaving recklessly
- Sleeping too little or too much
- Withdrawing or feeling isolated
- Showing rage or talking about seeking revenge
- Displaying extreme mood swings
- Suddenly happier and calmer, especially after a period of sadness
- Giving away prized possessions
- Getting affairs in order, making arrangements
- Preoccupation with death
How to Help Someone In Crisis
If someone you know exhibits warning signs of suicide:
- Take it seriously.
- Tell the person why you are concerned
- Don’t be afraid to ask if he/she is suicidal
- Do not try to argue someone out of suicide
- Encourage the person to see professional help immediately
- If it is a crisis, do not leave the person alone
- Remove any firearms, alcohol, drugs, or sharp objects that could be used in a suicide attempt
- Call Local Crisis Support the U.S. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-TALK, or 9-1-1
- Take the person to an emergency room or seek help from a medical or mental health professional
- Offer encouragement and support after the crisis
Suicide Myths & Facts
These myths of suicide stand in the way of providing assistance for those who are in danger. By removing the myths, those responsible for the care and education of young people will be more able to recognize those who are at risk and provide the help that is needed.
MYTH: Talking about suicide or asking someone if they feel suicidal will encourage suicide attempts.
FACT: Talking about suicide provides the opportunity for communication. Fears that are shared are more likely to diminish. The first step in encouraging a suicidal person to live comes from talking about those feelings That first step can be the simple inquiry about whether or not the person is intending to end their life. However, talking about suicide should be carefully managed.
MYTH: Young people who talk about suicide never attempt or complete suicide.
FACT: Talking about suicide can be a plea for help and it can be a late sign in the progression towards a suicide attempt. Those who are most at risk will show other signs apart from talking about suicide. If you have concerns about a young person who talks about suicide:
- Encourage him/her to talk further and help them to find appropriate counseling assistance.
- Ask if the person are thinking about making a suicide attempt.
- Ask if the person has a plan.
- Think about the completeness of the plan and how dangerous it is. All suicidal intentions are serious and must be acknowledged as such.
- Encourage the young person to develop a personal safety plan. This can include time spent with others, check-in points with significant adults/ plans for the future.
MYTH: Attempted or completed suicides happen without warning.
FACT: The survivors of a suicide often say that the intention was hidden from them. It is more likely that the intention was just not recognized. These warning signs include:
- The recent suicide, or death by other means, of a friend or relative.
- Previous suicide attempts.
- Preoccupation with death or expressing suicidal thoughts.
- Depression, conduct disorder and problems with adjustment such as substance abuse, particularly when two or more of these are present.
- Giving away possessions, making a will or other final arrangements.
- Major changes in sleep patterns - too much or too little.
- Sudden changes in eating habits, losing or gaining weight.
- Withdrawal from friends, family or other major changes.
- Dropping out of group activities.
- Personality changes such as nervousness, anger, impulsive or reckless behavior, or apathy about appearance or health.
- Frequent irritability or unexplained crying.
- Lingering expressions of unworthiness or failure.
- Lack of interest in the future.
- A sudden lifting of spirits, when there have been other indicators, may point to a decision to end the pain of life through suicide.
MYTH: If a person attempts suicide and survives, they will never make a further attempt.
FACT: A suicide attempt is regarded as an indicator of further attempts. It is likely that the level of danger will increase with each further suicide attempt.
MYTH: Once a person is intent on suicide, there is no way of stopping them.
FACT: Suicides can be prevented. People can be helped. Suicidal crises can be relatively short-lived. Suicide is a permanent solution to what is usually a temporary problem. Immediate practical help such as staying with the person, encouraging them to talk and helping them build plans for the future, can avert the intention to attempt or complete suicide. Such immediate help is valuable at a time of crisis, but appropriate counselling will then be required.
MYTH: People who threaten suicide are just seeking attention.
FACT: All suicide attempts must be treated as though the person has the intent to die. Do not dismiss a suicide attempt as simply being an attention-gaining device. It is likely that the young person has tried to gain attention and, therefore, this attention is needed. The attention that they get may well save their lives.
MYTH: Suicide is hereditary.
FACT: Although suicide can be over-represented in families, it is attempts not genetically inherited. Members of families share the same emotional environment, and the completed suicide of one family member may well raise the awareness of suicide as an option for other family members.
MYTH: Depression and self-destructive behavior are rare in young people.
FACT: Both forms of behavior are common in adolescents. Depression may manifest itself in ways which are different from its manifestation in adults but it is prevalent in children and adolescents. Self-destructive behavior is most likely to be shown for the first time in adolescence and its incidence is on the rise.
MYTH: All suicidal young people are depressed.
FACT: While depression is a contributory factor in most suicides, it need not be present for suicide to be attempted or completed .
MYTH: Once a young person is suicidal, they will be suicidal forever.
FACT: Most young people who are considering suicide will only be that way for a limited period of their lives. Given proper assistance and support, they will probably recover and continue to lead meaningful and happy lives unhindered by suicidal concerns.
MYTH: The only effective intervention for suicide comes from professional psychotherapists with extensive experience in the area.
FACT: All people who interact with suicidal adolescents can help them by way of emotional support and encouragement. Psychotherapeutic interventions also rely heavily on family, and friends providing a network of support.
MYTH: Break-ups in relationships happen so frequently, they do not cause suicide.
FACT: Suicide can be precipitated by the loss of a relationship.
MYTH: Suicide is much more common in young people from higher (or lower) socioeconomic status (SES) areas.
FACT: The causes of suicidal behavior cut across SES boundaries. While the literature in the area is incomplete, there is no definitive link between SES and suicide. This does not preclude localized tendencies nor trends in a population during a certain period of time
MYTH: Every death is preventable.
FACT: No matter how well intentioned, alert and diligent people's efforts may be, there is no way of preventing all suicides from occurring.
Suicide Prevention Resources
Crisis Text Line: a free 24/7 support for those in crisis. Text 741741 from anywhere in the US to text with a trained Crisis Counselor. Crisis Text Line trains volunteers to support people in crisis. With over 54 million messages processed to date, we’re growing quickly, but so is the need.
Call the Children's Mobile Crisis Support: 888-435-7414
Call the Peer Support Talk Line: 855-715-8255
(available daily 3 p.m. to 8 p.m.)
Call the Teen Talk Line: 866-85-5856 or text 215-703-8411
Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 800-442-4673
Click here for the Montgomery County Suicide Prevention Resource Guide.
Safe2Say
How to Submit a Tip:
There are three tip submission options
Safe2Say App:
- Download app from Apple / Android app store – search for “Safe2Say Something PA”
- Once downloaded, open the app – it will prompt you to input a 4-digit password – this is any 4-digits you wish. It’s a simple lock feature so no one can access your / a tipster’s tips.
- The app will then prompt you to input the school you will associate yourself to (this is literally a school in your school system / district you work at).
- To find a school in your school system / district, spell the name of your school or town it is located in, and locations will be listed.
- Once your location appears, select it. It will now be permanently selected for all practice tips you submit.
Safe2Say Website:
- www.safe2sayPA.org and select “submit a tip”
- 24/7 Safe2Say Crisis Hotline:
- Call 1-844-SAF2SAY OR 1-844-723-2729
To learn more about Safe2Say, please check out the UPN Safe2Say Video
School Board Policy Suicide Awareness, Prevention and Response
Homeless and Foster Eligibility and Services
- Homeless Liaison Contact Information
- Eligibility under McKinney Vento
- Board Policies Related to Foster and Homeless Students
- UPSD Homeless Children Rights & Resources
Homeless Liaison Contact Information
School Social Worker
Ms. Rachel Maxey, LSW
rmaxey@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2448
Fax: 215-679-7962
ldicesare@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2453
Fax: 215-679-7962
Eligibility under McKinney Vento
PA HOMELESS CHILDREN’S INITIATIVE (MCKINNEY-VENTO ACT)
The McKinney-Vento Homeless Assistance Act was created to aid homeless persons. The Act defines the term “homeless children and youths” as individuals who lack a fixed, regular, and adequate nighttime residence.
For important information regarding Pennsylvania’s Homeless Children’s Initiative (McKinney-Vento Act) view the McKinney-Vento Flyer
Flowchart for McKinney-Vento Eligibility Determinations
If you believe you may be eligible for services, please contact the UPSD Homeless Liaison or your school counselor to find out what services and supports may be available.
The UPSD Homeless Liaison is Dr. Andrea Farina who can be reached at afarina@upsd.org
Board Policies Related to Foster and Homeless Students
UPSD Homeless Children Rights & Resources
Homebound Instruction
- Homebound Instruction
- School Board Policies for Homebound Instruction
- Application for Homebound Instruction
- District Contact for Homebound Instruction
- Process for Requesting Homebound Instruction
Homebound Instruction
Homebound Instruction Information
Students enrolled in the Upper Perkiomen School District (UPSD) are occasionally temporarily prevented from attending regular classroom instruction due to physical or mental illness or injury or other urgent reason. In accordance with Chapter 11 (Attendance) of the regulations promulgated by the State Board of Education UPSD offers homebound instruction to students who are temporarily precluded from attending a regular classroom due to such condition.
Parents/guardians should contact their child's school counselor and/or principal to request homebound instruction for those confinements expected to last at least ten school days.
In the event a student requires homebound instruction for a period that exceeds three months, the parent/guardian must provide a request in writing to the Assistant Superintendent. The request may be no later than 10 days prior to the date upon the student's original homebound instruction period is scheduled to end, supported by a medical doctor's statement explaining the reason for the student's need for continued homebound instruction and a revised anticipated length of confinement.
A new request must be submitted for every additional three-month period subsequent to the original three-month homebound instruction period and must be approved by PDE. (22 Pa. Code 11.25)
Students who are receiving homebound instruction due to illness or disability shall not participate in extracurricular activities sponsored by the Upper Perkiomen School District.
The forms which should be completed prior to starting homebound instruction are below.
- Homebound Request Form
- Homebound Health Information Release Form
The forms which should be completed at the conclusion of homebound instruction are below.
- End of Homebound Verification Form
Other Information Related to Homebound Instruction:
Part-Time Attendance:
A school district may structure homebound instruction for a student such that the student attends school part-time, as his or her condition allows; homebound instruction requests need not be restricted to students who are unable to attend school at all. This is a local decision.
If a student attends school for partial days, than homebound instruction would be prorated. For example, if a student attends school half-days, only 2.5 hours of homebound instruction is required for the equivalent of five days of instruction.
PSSA/Keystone Testing:
A homebound student is required to participate in the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA). If the student is incapable of participating at the school, the individual who is providing the homebound instruction should be trained to administer the assessment and then administer the test to the student in his/her home.
For additional information, please contact: RA-homebound@pa.gov
School Board Policies for Homebound Instruction
Application for Homebound Instruction
- Homebound Instruction Application *this requires a physician signature prior to submission
- Homebound Health Information Release
- End of Homebound Verification Form
District Contact for Homebound Instruction
Any parent seeking to apply for Homebound Instruction should contact the school counselor for the students.
High School Counselors
Angela Traub:
- Email: atraub@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-5935 ext. 7120
Leanne LeGendre:
- Email: llegendre@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-5935 ext. 7122
John Gunning
- Email: jgunning@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-5935 ext. 7121
Middle School Counselors
Theresa Schlatterer
- Email: tschlatterer@upsd.org
- Phone: 267-313-4800 ext. 6511
Justin Arifaj
- Email: jarifaj@upsd.org
- Phone: 267-313-4800 ext. 6512
Elementary Counselors
Karen Shetler (Marlborough)
- Email: kshelter@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-541-7299 ext. 7219
Jeff Bibus (Hereford)
- Email: jbibus@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-4151 ext. 3409
Sue Kenna (4th-5th Center)
- Email: skenna@upsd.org
- Phone: 215-679-6288 ext. 4012
District Homebound approval is determined by the following individual.
Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Andrea Farina
afarina@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2466
Fax: 215-679-7962
Process for Requesting Homebound Instruction
Process for requesting homebound instruction:
- A parent/guardian must complete the Homebound Application in order to request homebound instruction and complete the Health Information Release
- The treating medical professional (including but not limited to medical doctor, psychologist or psychiatrist) must complete the physician’s statement and return to the parent.
- Once the parental request form and physician’s statement are complete, the school counselor is to review the packet with the family and ensure all forms are completed accurately and appropriately.
- The counselor is to then complete their recommendation form and submit to the building principal for review and approval.
- Once all forms are completed and signed, counselor is to send the packet to the Office of the Assistant Superintendent for final review and approval.
- Once approved, the Assistant Superintendent will sign the form and assign a homebound tutor (s) and/or a virtual asynchronous resource. One hour of instruction is provided for each day of instruction. The school team should determine the priority focus for skill attention (e.g., 3 hours of English/Language Arts and 2 hours of Math) each week. Tutor(s) will be identified who are able to provide support in the targeted skills area.
- School staff will work to gather instructional materials from the teacher(s) working with the student and prioritize work to be completed by the student and tutor during the absence.
Homeschool Education
- Homeschool Education
- School Board Policies for Homeschool Education
- Homeschool Education Documents
- Contact Information for Homeschool Education
Homeschool Education
Home Education Program
24 P.S. §13-1327.1
Purpose
Section 1327.1 of the Pennsylvania School Code provides for a home education program designed to permit a parent, guardian or legal custodian ("supervisor") who has a high school diploma or its equivalent to conduct a home education program for his or her child or children. This BEC provides a listing of the requirements for the supervisor to establish a home education program, a list of acceptable tests to fulfill the law’s requirements, and sample affidavit form for use by the supervisor.
Procedures
Prior to the commencement of a home education program and annually thereafter between July 1 and Aug 1, the supervisor must submit a notarized affidavit to the Superintendent of the school district in accordance with Section 1327.1(b)(1) and 1327(d). Attached to this BEC are sample affidavits that may be used by the supervisor of a home education program. These samples are not exclusive and the use of other forms also is permissible as long as all required information is provided.
In addition to the notarized affidavit, the parent, guardian or legal custodian must attach:
- an outline of proposed education objectives by subject area,
- evidence (records or a letter from the physician) that the child or children have been immunized as required by School Code Sec. 1303(a) unless a physician certifies the child has a medical contraindication to immunization and
- evidence (records or a letter from the physician) that the child or children have received medical services required for students of the child’s or children’s age or grade level in Article XIV, or religious exemption for these two requirements.
Regulation found in 22 Pa. Code §11.31a states that school district approval is not required to commence a home education program when all necessary paperwork has been filed.
School districts must allow students who are in a home education program in their school district to participate in activities under 24 P.S. §5-511 such as, but not limited to, clubs, musical ensembles, athletics and theatrical productions.
Tests
The Pennsylvania School Code, 24 P.S. §13-1327.1(e)(1) states that the portfolio for home education students in grades 3, 5 and 8 must include the results of the statewide tests for reading/language arts and mathematics or nationally normed standardized achievements tests. If the supervisor of the home education program requests that the student(s) take the statewide tests administered in these grades, the school district must allow the student to take the test at the school building the home education student normally would attend or other accommodations agreed to by the school district and the parent. The Department has approved the following nationally normed standardized tests for use by home education programs if they choose not to take the statewide tests:
- California Achievement Test
- Comprehensive Testing Program (CTPIV)
- Iowa Test of Basic Skills
- Measures of Academic Progress (MAP)
- Metropolitan Achievement Test
- Peabody Achievement Individual Test – Revised Version
- Stanford Achievement Test
- Terra Nova
- Woodcock-Johnson Revised Tests of Achievement III
- Woodcock-Johnson IV
- Wechsler Individual Achievement Test III (WIAT-III)
School Board Policies for Homeschool Education
Homeschool Education Documents
How do I register my child for homeschooling in PA?
File a notarized affidavit with the local school district before you start your homeschool program and by August 1 of each year after that. The affidavit must include the following information:
- Name of the parent/supervisor
- Name and age of child, address
- Telephone number
Elementary – School Age Student Sample Affidavit Grades K-6 (Word)
Secondary - School Age Student Sample Affidavit Grades 7-12 (Word)
Contact Information for Homeschool Education
Assistant Superintendent
Dr. Andrea Farina
afarina@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2466
Fax: 215-679-7962
ldicesare@upsd.org
Phone: 215-541-2453
Fax: 215-679-7962
Outside Supports for Families
- Mobile Crisis
- St. Lukes & Penn Foundation
- Creative Health Services
- Malvern
- Family Worx
- NAMI
- Medical Assistance
Mobile Crisis
Competent and caring crisis workers will help individuals resolve crisis situations like depression or suicidal thoughts through telephone and mobile support when needed. The team is there to help with immediate crisis situations and help reduce and manage recurring crises. All services are provided at no charge. Crisis support is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Phone: 1-855-634-HOPE (4673)
St. Lukes & Penn Foundation
OUR MISSION
To instill hope, inspire change, and build community
OUR VISION
We believe in the resilience of the human spirit.
We dedicate ourselves to the provision of superior behavioral, developmental, and physical healthcare that is individualized and family centered, accessible and equitable.
We compassionately support the ability of every individual to fully realize their emotional, physical, and spiritual potential.
We aspire to better serve our community through an integrated model of coordinated and cost-efficient care.
We seek to innovate and collaborate with organizations that share our mission and values.
We promote the development of our staff by creating opportunities for achievement and advancement.
Services: Crisis, Mental Health, Drug and Alcohol, Employee Assistance
Website: Penn Foundation
Creative Health Services
Creative Health Services provides quality behavioral healthcare designed to empower and promote wellness for individuals, families and communities.
Experience the connection that helps you flourish.
Creative Health Services is Pottstown’s community behavioral health center where people THRIVE with CONNECTION to services under one roof. We provide SUPPORT for individuals and families on their journey to WHOLENESS and RECOVERY, making us your destination of choice for behavioral healthcare in Montgomery County since 1957.
We offer Trauma Informed Behavioral Health Care choices to individuals suffering with mental health and/or drug and alcohol services. Creative Health Services continues to develop strong collaborative partnerships and integrated care opportunities.
Contact Us:
Phone: 484-941-0500
Fax: 484-941-0515
Email: info@creativehs.org
Malvern
Malvern Community Health Services
Our Mission: Malvern Community Health Services seeks to support children and adults and their families (fathers and mothers), role models of both genders, caregivers, friends and members of their spiritual community of choice, to have access to individualized, strength-based, trauma informed quality behavioral health supports and services that foster choices so that they may enjoy meaningful relationships and a life worth living in our communities.
Malvern offers expert and caring behavioral health services for children, adolescents, and adults throughout southeastern Pennsylvania.
Our Outpatient Therapy program provides office-based counseling staffed with therapists who work compassionately with both youths and adults.
Our Behavioral Health Rehabilitation Services (BHRS), also known as Wrap Around, is a unique therapeutic program that enables our clinicians to help youths and their families wherever assistance is needed, in the youth’s home, school, or community.
The Upper Perkiomen School District utilizes Malvern for school based and school therapeutic services.
What is School-Based?
School based outpatient treatment is similar to office based outpatient therapy except that it is provided within an office in a school during the school day. We provide individual, group and family therapy. We closely coordinate our efforts with those of the teachers, counselors, social workers, and administrators.
Services are provided by Master’s level clinicians and include an Initial Psychosocial Assessment, Individual Therapy, Family Therapy and Group Therapy. School Based Therapists include families and school staff in the treatment process to help students achieve success at school and at home. Psychiatric Evaluations and Medication Management are available as needed.
Referrals are made through the school and the student must be eligible to receive Medical Assistance. Not every school has this program available. If your child’s school does not have this program, we are available to assist you through office-based outpatient treatment.
What are School Therapeutic Services (STS)?
Eligible students are in grades K through 8 who have a behavioral health diagnosis that impacts their performance in school. This program is funded under Medical Assistance.
What does this program offer?
Our STS staff provides comprehensive therapeutic interventions that are closely coordinated with the school staff. Our program consists of a team of behavioral health professionals who are based within the school, providing treatment to students who have been assigned to the program. STS provides a flexible delivery of services based upon need.
The STS team consists of the following specialists:
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The Lead Clinician (LC) designs behavioral interventions in collaboration with the treatment team, school staff, and family. The LC provides family liaison and treatment planning, linkage with other service providers, case consultation, supervision and implementation of the care plan, and individual treatment and crisis intervention.
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The Group Mobile Therapist conducts group therapy to process issues such as anger management, self-esteem, negative peer pressure and coping techniques.
The Behavioral Health Worker provides positive behavioral reinforcement, emotional support, time-structuring activities, time-out strategies, crisis intervention techniques, and related activities.
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Regular morning check-in to prepare students for a successful school day
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Individual and group psychotherapy
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Behavioral modification and coping skills
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Crisis intervention, response, and management
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Weekly coordination and collaboration with the parents or primary caregivers
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Case management service involving family support, service linkage and service referral
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Client-centered case consultation with teachers and other school personnel
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Psychiatric evaluation and medication management if needed
Contact Information:
Malvern Health
1000 Germantown Pike
Building G5
Plymouth Meeting, PA 19462
Phone: 610-941-3390
Email: https://www.malvernhealthinc.com/contact-us/
Family Worx
FamilyWorx is an advocacy team comprised of parents and primary caregivers whose children are involved in the public health system. Team members work together to support parents and caregivers as someone who has been in their shoes. For more information, contact Lisa Radcliffe, Program Supervisor.
- Phone: 610-618-2059
- Email: Lradcliffe@hopeworxinc.org
NAMI
The Montgomery County PA Affiliate is the local voice of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Its mission is to improve the lives of individuals and families affected by mental illness through recovery-focused support, education, and advocacy. Individuals and families benefit from the opportunity to connect with community resources, participate in programming, and gain an understanding of mental illness through community awareness and advocacy events. All NAMI Montgomery County PA programming is free to the community.
Phone: 215-361-7784
Medical Assistance
There are different ways to apply for MA. Please choose the option that suits you best. If you do not know if you are eligible, you can still apply.
- Online: Using the COMPASS website, you can apply for MA and many other services that can help you make ends meet.
- Telephone: Call the Consumer Service Center for Health Care Coverage at 1-866-550-4355.
- In-Person: You can contact your local county assistance office (CAO).
- On Paper: You can download an application and send to your local CAO. If you need help completing the application form, a CAO staff member can help you. Click on one of the following links to download an application.