High School Student Assistance Program
The Linn-Mar High School Student Assistance Program seeks to address the risk factors that lead to at-risk behaviors while promoting the protective factors that lead to increasing productive behaviors. The Student Assistance Program offers prevention programs, mentoring, support groups, short-term counseling, and crisis intervention services. Recommendations for additional services and referrals may also be provided.
If you are interested in any support services provided by the high school Student Assistance Program, contact a Student Assistance Specialist or any Student Assistance Team member.
High School Student Assistance Program Mission:
- Completion of high school
- Provide services addressing at-risk behaviors
- Prevent substance abuse
- Provide services that promote productive behaviors
High School Student Assistance Program Contacts:
Kevin McCauley
Student Assistance Counselor
(319) 447-3047 / Email
Provides individual and group counseling for at-risk behaviors, a safe place for substance use screenings, and education about personal life issues. Referrals for service may come from any source.
Joyce Booth-Baisten
Student Assistance Counselor
(319) 892-4884 / Email
Provides assistance to students struggling with issues such as attendance, peer relationships, no secure post-high school plans, minority student support, and students with a history in foster care. Referrals for service may come from any source.
Jessica Deahl
Student Assistance Counselor
(319) 730-3559 / Email
Supports students, groups, and families on a variety of life issues, particularly mental health related. Support may include counseling, support groups, education, or referral. Referrals for service may come from any source.
Tony Nicol
Student Assistance Counselor
(319) 447-3073 / Email
Provides academic support to students struggling to pass their courses and earn the necessary credits to meet graduation requirements. Referrals may come from any source.
- Credit Completion – Students ending a term with a grade ranging from 55-59% can still earn a D- by completing coursework
- Credit Recovery – Students may earn credits through online courses and/or the Work Experience Program
- Credit Accumulation – An alternative setting is provided for students to take courses via the COMPASS Program
Danielle Patterson
Student Assistance Counselor
(319) 447-3059 / Email
Provides academic support to students struggling to pass their courses and earn the necessary credits to meet graduation requirements. Referrals may come from any source.
- Credit Completion – Students ending a term with a grade ranging from 55-59% can still earn a D- by completing coursework
- Credit Recovery – Students may earn credits through online courses and/or the Work Experience Program
- Credit Accumulation – An alternative setting is provided for students to take courses via the COMPASS Program
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Shawn Knighton,
Family Resource Specialist
(319) 730-3633 / Email
Provides direct services to families in the Linn-Mar Community School District regarding at-risk issues, as well as a liaison with parents and community resources.
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High School Student Assistance Team:
This team, which consists of staff members, can assist students who voluntarily contact them for support, information, and resources in a confidential manner. Any students needing additional counseling will be referred to one of the Student Assistance Specialists or an outside agency/professional.
| Name | Title |
|---|---|
| Corey Brinkmeyer | Business Teacher |
| Jordan Printy | Social Studies Teacher |
| Lisa Schumacher | Academic Teacher |
| Kyle Hoffman | Science Teacher |
| Tracy Hopkins | English Teacher |
| Kathleen Kelley | English Teacher |
| Nancy Kleitsch | LMHS Nurse |
| Jennifer Tiede | Band Teacher |
| Lisa Loftin | Spanish Teacher |
| Trent Buglewicz | Vocal Music Teacher |
| Candice Mullnix | English Teacher |
| Jeanne Turner | Psychology Teacher |
| Amanda Kloser | English Teacher |
| Sarah Mollman | English Teacher |
| Chelsi Snead | Health Teacher |
| Kelsey Epner | French Teacher |
| Lee Kibbie | English Teacher |
| Kourtney Albright | Compass Teacher |
| Chelsey Dill | English Teacher |
| Stephanie Merritt | Health Teacher |
| Malory Torres | Health Teacher |
Student Support Groups:
- C.O.D.E. – a support group for Children Of Diverse Environments
- Lean On Me – a presentation group that addresses bullying & harassment issues for grades 4-8 students
- SODA – a social activity group for Students Opposed to Drugs and Alcohol
- TRY – Teens Reaching Youth, a group that provides education about productive, healthy lifestyles for K-8 students
- ALO – a group for students of color focusing on Accountability, Leadership, and Opportunity
- Mental Health Matters– a group focused on increasing awareness of mental health.
Traumatic Event Response Plan:
The high school Student Assistance Team facilitates the building Crisis Plan in the event of a traumatic event.
James E. Purtell Award:
This award is selected by the high school Student Assistance Team. The Purtell Award is presented to a senior who has made notable personal growth since entering high school.
Wildcat Closet & PRIDE Food Pantry:
Collected quality clothing, school supplies, and non-perishable food items for high school students who are in need. All items are free to students. Contact Shawn Knighton for questions on the PRIDE Food Pantry and Jessica Deahl for questions on the Wildcat Closet.
Mikula Reception:
A graduation reception for selected students who have overcome significant living obstacles.