Students who are seeking help with substance use issues now have another place to turn, thanks to a partnership between the Anne Arundel County Department of Health and the County Public Schools.

The STAR (Screening Teens to Access Recovery) Program allows school health nurses to utilize technology to connect high school students in a tele-session with a licensed therapist from the Department of Health. Sessions take place through a secure portal to ensure privacy.

Based on screening results, the therapist will work with the student to explore available treatment options and decide the next steps. The therapist and school health nurse will encourage students to include their parents, guardians, caregiver or another trusted adult in the process.

Any high school student can arrange to go to the school health room at any time during the school day for help. STAR offers a nonjudgmental stigma-free environment that is convenient and welcoming.

“We all have a stake in ensuring the wellness of our students,” Anne Arundel County Executive Steuart Pittman said. “This collaboration between the school system and the Department of Health is critical to help students that have a problem with substance use get the help they need when they need it.”

Schools Superintendent Dr. George Arlotto said, “This is another proactive step our partners at the Department of Health are taking to help us address wellness issues with all of our students. I believe the ability of students to access assistance from a friendly face in the school health room will encourage more students to seek help when they need it.”

Last school year, more than 300 students who were suspected to be under the influence of some substance were seen in county school health rooms. National statistics also show that 90% of adolescents with a substance use disorder receive no treatment.