Hello, my name is Jason West and I am the student support advocate (SSA) at Glacier Peak High School.

What is an SSA? Simply put, I am a case manager. I work alongside counselors and other staff to make sure that young people and families can overcome any barriers to their academic experience (think community resources). That is a very broad description because my job is very broad. Below are some examples of some types of students\situations I work with:

• Homelessness/McKinney Vento
• Students using drugs or alcohol
• Students who are not safe at home
• Students having thoughts of suicide (I am not a licensed therapist, but I will get these students to the right spot). 
• Students who need health insurance
• Students who need to see a doctor or mental health professional
• Students and families who need any sort of documentation (ID, birth cert, social security)
• Low-income barriers 
• LGBTQAI+ resources 

I work with students and families in a harm-reduction and strength-based manner to achieve goals that they have identified. If you are ever wondering if you should refer a student to me but are not sure, feel free to send me their name and I will sort out the details. It is never a waste of my time to meet a student-if they don’t need resources, they likely know someone who does.

How to contact me (families and students)

• In-person: My office is located on the third floor in the counseling office
• Phone: (360) 926-6003 (okay for staff, families and youth)
• Email: jason.west@sno.wednet.edu