Basically, the EAP is a program that provides counseling support over a wide range of life issues. EAPs grew out of industry as a means of supporting employees when supervisors or managers knew that personal concerns were affecting employee job performance. The idea was that if corporations provided assistance to help workers resolve those personal concerns, then the return on the investment in terms of increased job production would outweigh the cost of the assistance. Over the last 30-35 years, that premise has largely proven to be true...hence, EAPs have become almost standard parts of "Corporate America", and I'm very happy that AISD has now added this benefit for the employees of our district.

Types of Assistance
The EAP provides for free, confidential assistance with personal life problems, including but not limited to:

• Marital/Relationship issues
• Psychological/Emotional issues
• Family problems
• Legal or financial concerns
• Stress from any source
• Job-performance issues
• Drug/Alcohol- related problems
• Consultation regarding EAP options

Eligibility
All AISD employees who are benefits-eligible (working at least 20 hrs/wk), along with the following:

• Employee, Retiree, Married/Divorced Spouse (may bring anyone else to covered sessions regardless of relationship to Employee).
• All family members living in employee's home, regardless of age, including Significant Others and their Children.
• Children/Grandchildren (age 25 or under) of Employee or Married/Divorced Spouse or Significant Other living outside Employee's home.
• Any terminated Employee eligible for benefits up to 6 months from date of termination, provided employee met eligibility prior to termination.