Student Assistant Program (N.E.A.T.)
What is the N.E.A.T. Program?
The Student Assistance Program, often referred to as The Northeastern Assistance Team (NEAT), helps identify and support students in grades K–12 who may be experiencing barriers to learning. These barriers could include challenges related to mental health, alcohol, tobacco, or drug use.
Each school has a trained NEAT Team, comprising school counselors, our school social worker, and other staff members. This team works together to identify students who may be struggling and connects them with support and resources to help them succeed in school.
How Does NEAT Help?
NEAT is not a treatment program. Students are not diagnosed. Instead, students are assessed and the school partners with parents to provide helpful information and connect you with services in the school or community, if needed.
Parents are an important part of the team. Our goal is to support children so they can do their best in school.
Who Can Refer a Student?
Anyone who is concerned about a student can refer them to NEAT, including the following:
- A parent or guardian
- Teachers or school staff
- Friends or classmates
- Community members
- Student themselves
However, the NEAT team will not begin working with a student until we have written permission from a parent or guardian.
What Happens After I Give Permission?
Once you give your consent, the SAP Team will:
- Work with parents to create a plan that supports your child’s needs
- Offer a risk assessment provided by TrueNorth
- Share information about school-based support and, if necessary, outside services such mental health providers
- Stay in touch to talk about your child’s progress
- Respect your privacy—participation is voluntary and confidential
Why Was My Child Referred?
If your child was referred, it means someone noticed changes in their behavior, school performance, or habits that may suggest they are struggling. This concern comes from a place of care and support.
The NEAT team will contact you to explain the reason for the referral and request your permission to move forward. If you choose not to participate, no action will be taken. If you have questions, the NEAT team is happy to talk with parents before you make a decision.
What Kind of Help is Available?
NEAT Teams connect families with a variety of supports that may include:
- Check-ins during the school day
- Various types of services are available, including counseling during the day provided by PCBH
If you are concerned about a student and would like to make a NEAT. Referral, you are welcome to contact any member of the NEAT Team or submit a brief referral form using the link below.
