Coordinator: Lisa Ellis
Office: University Hall, Room 2201
Phone Number: 973-655-7267
Email: ellisli@montclair.edu
A Student Assistant Coordinator (SAC) is a school professional who works within the School Counseling Department. They provide support to students and staff on various topics including substance use, mental well-being, and behavioral health. To become a SAC in New Jersey, you must complete an endorsement program that includes a minimum of 21 credits.
Per the NJDOE, the functions of the SAC may include:
- Assisting with the in-service training of school staff concerning substance abuse and related issues and with the district program to combat substance abuse.
- Serving as an information resource for substance abuse prevention, curriculum development and instruction.
- Assisting the district in revising and implementing substance abuse and related policies and procedures.
- Developing and administering substance abuse and related intervention services in the district.
- Providing counseling and referral services to students regarding substance abuse and related problems.
- Cooperating with community service providers or other officials in the rendering of substance abuse and related treatment services.
The Student Assistance Coordinator Program meets the New Jersey educational requirements for the SAC. Minimum requirements into the program are a Master’s degree.
Requirements:
To be considered for admission into the Student Assistance Coordinator (SAC) Certification Program, and to be eligible for the SAC Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (CEAS), at the time of application, the candidate must hold:
- hold a master’s in counseling or a closely related field or higher degree from a regionally accredited college or university as identified in the New Jersey Department of Education requirements.
With the required choice of an advanced certification, credential, or MA degree, as stated above, followed by the completion of the approved SAC coursework at Montclair State University, the State Education Department will issue a SAC Certificate of Eligibility with Advanced Standing (Employment Certificate), which is processed through the University. This will enable students to seek a supervised internship/employment placements as a provisional Student Assistance Coordinator.
Applications for certificate programs can be completed online through The Graduate School.