Navigating the Teams Page
This year’s SAP articles will focus on the resources available on the PA Network for Student Assistance Services (PNSAS) website. PNSAS regularly updates documents and adds additional resources to the site. The SAP Connection articles will review available resources each month to assist SAP teams and other stakeholders.
The SAP Liaisons section of the PNSAS website is a one-stop resource for liaisons supporting student assistance programs across Pennsylvania. Here’s what you’ll find:
- SAP Liaison Best Practice Guidelines - These best practice guidelines were recently revised in September 2025. The Pennsylvania Network for Student Assistance Services (PNSAS) recognizes Student Assistance Program (SAP) liaisons as community-based staff trained to identify barriers to learning and success and to make recommendations to address those barriers. As representatives of the county drug and alcohol and mental health systems, SAP liaisons provide consultation to SAP teams and families. They may conduct screenings/assessments for referred students with potential drug and alcohol and/or mental health related needs. Liaisons may provide a variety of services and supports including linkages to recommended community resources. These best practice guidelines are applicable to Single County Authorities (SCAs), county mental health (MH) administrators, and providers of liaison services for effective delivery of SAP liaison services. While this document outlines best practices, agencies should reference and follow their respective agency guidelines for the provision of SAP liaison services.
- SAP Liaison Handbook - Developed by Department of Drug and Alcohol Program’s Prevention Workgroup in collaboration with PNSAS and liaison agencies, this customizable handbook is designed to streamline knowledge transfer and provide essential resources for both new and experienced liaisons. Agencies are encouraged to personalize the Word version to reflect their unique roles and responsibilities.
- SAP Liaison Connection 25/26 School Year Series Flyer - This refreshed series focuses on training, professional development, and strengthening our liaison community. Each session is designed to support your growth and success in your role. The next session will be April 23 | 1:00–2:00 PM.
- Annual Reporting- SAP Liaison Annual Reports (SLAR) - A link to the SAP Liaison Annual Reporting system is on the Liaison page and a link to the SLAR System Access Instructions Walkthrough to assist in accessing the system and how to build reports.
The SAP Liaisons tab on the PNSAS website is designed to keep you informed, equipped, and connected. Be sure to explore these tools and check back regularly for new updates that support your vital role in helping students succeed.
Please reach out to your PNSAS Regional Coordinator for assistance.
Announcements
Your Input is Needed - SAP and Family Engagement Survey
PNSAS would like to invite you to complete a short 5‑question survey to help us gather information on SAP and family engagement for future projects.
You can access the survey by clicking here.
Please take a moment to complete the survey—your feedback is essential and will help guide our future work.
Commonwealth Prevention Alliance Conference
JUNE 10-12, 2026
Hilton Harrisburg
Participants gain actionable strategies, explore research-informed approaches to prevention, and connect with peers across fields such as education, public health, social services, law enforcement, and youth development. Find conference sessions and registration information here.
Pennsylvania Mental Health and Wellness Conference
May 18 - May 19, 2026 - Harrisburg, PA 17111
The annual two-day event is an opportunity for peers, caregivers, advocates, and mental health professionals to experience a one-of-a-kind conference that will provide a platform to learn, share, and network. It will feature keynote presentations, workshops, resource tables, and networking. Continuing Education Credits will be offered. Find out more here.
2026 Suicide Prevention Conference - “Artificial Intelligence + Human Connection”
The annual Services for Teens At Risk (STAR) Center Suicide Prevention Conference will be held on Friday, May 15, 2026.
Find more information here.
2026 Suicide Prevention Alliance Annual Conference
August 4th & 5th 2026
Harrisburg, PA
This year’s theme is Turning Passion Into Action. This conference is designed to move beyond awareness and conversation - focusing instead on practical, evidence-informed strategies that translate commitment into meaningful change in suicide prevention.
Dynamic and engaging presentations will demonstrate how passion, advocacy, lived experience, and innovation can be transformed into concrete action.
Sessions will showcase effective interventions, collaborative models, policy or systems change, community-driven solutions, and approaches that improve access, equity, and outcomes in suicide prevention and mental health care.
Find more information here.
Training Opportunities
SAP Training - For upcoming training opportunities, click
here
.
Grants
For open PA Commission on Crime and Delinquency (PCCD) grant opportunities, click
here
.