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Substance Abuse Prevention Counselors (SAPC) at Arlington County Public School play a crucial role in supporting schools by facilitating psycho-education lessons and implementing prevention activities. They coordinate services and referrals, assist students in identifying early risk factors, and encourage access to support and resources. SAPC’s collaborate with families and the community to promote protective factors, provide presentations in schools and the community, and offer staff training on current trends. They also support schools with substance use concerns through early intervention.
Substance Abuse Prevention Counselor
Substance Abuse Counselor, Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 703-228-6927 (office) or 703-718-6575 (mobile)
Substance Abuse Prevention Resources
APS Prohibited Substance Policy
Arlington County Public Schools is committed to providing a healthy and substance-free learning environment. The School Board bans the use of prohibited substances on school property, walking to and from school, on buses, at off-campus lunches, and at school events.Prohibited substance may include, but are not limited to:
- Prescription pills.
- Over-the-Counter Medication such as Tylenol and Allergy Medicine.
- Vitamins
- Vapes and E-Cigarettes.
- Edible
- Marijuana
- Alcohol
This information is detailed in the APS Prohibited Substance Policy.In addition to the enforcing the policy, Arlington County Public Schools offer activities and strategies to encourage healthy development and educate students about the dangers of illegal drugs, alcohol, and the misuse of legal substances. We also provide substance abuse prevention counseling and referral services for secondary students who have substance-related concerns.
Second Chance Arlington Program
Second Chance Arlington is a program designed to educate middle and high school students in Arlington about restorative justice. It focuses on helping them steer clear of alcohol, drugs, and other illegal substances. This program is not a form of treatment, counseling, or therapy. It’s most beneficial for students showing early signs of substance use. The program is free for all Arlington County middle and high school students.
Students can be referred by parents or guardians who are worried about potential substance use. Arlington Public Schools (APS) may refer students caught under the influence or in possession of illegal substances as an alternative to suspension. The Arlington Juvenile Courts can also refer students instead of court involvement. Additionally, students have the option to self-refer. Participation is confidential and counts as an excused school absence.
Second Chance Arlington is a community collaboration involving students, parents, school administrators, police, the juvenile justice system, the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and non-profit partners. It is run by the Arlington Foundation for Families and Youth.