Meet the ACPS Partners: Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria

Alexandria City Public Schools (ACPS) is fortunate to count dozens of dedicated businesses, community organizations and institutions of higher education as partners working with us each day to inspire students and address barriers to learning. Our “Meet the ACPS Partners” series is how we proudly thank these organizations and share their powerful, positive work with the community. This week, we caught up with Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) Coordinator Emma Beall. SAPCA serves ACPS divisionwide.

Tell us about your organization. What’s your mission statement? How do you work with ACPS students, families or staff?

The Substance Abuse Prevention Coalition of Alexandria (SAPCA) brings together youth, families, schools and community partners to prevent youth substance use and support positive development. We regularly partner with ACPS to share information with families about strengthening the parent-child relationship and to promote meaningful opportunities for Alexandria youth to get involved in the community.

How long has your organization been (officially/unofficially) partnering with ACPS?

15+ years.

If you could describe the impact of your work with ACPS in three words or less, what would they be and why?

Inform, Empower, Connect.

What is a recent bit of good news about your organization or a feel-good story that you can share about your work?

Earlier this month, 14 Alexandria City High School (ACHS) student leaders involved with SAPCA attended a national substance use prevention conference where they connected with youth and adult leaders from across the country. We are excited to incorporate the strategies and ideas they learned at the conference to further strengthen our local prevention efforts.

What is one thing most people might not know about your organization's work?

Our work is youth and community-driven. It takes a community to teach prevention, and we rely on input and involvement from youth, parents/guardians and our school and community partners to ensure we are best meeting the needs of families.

How can community members get involved and support your organization's collaborative efforts with ACPS?

Learn about volunteer opportunities, explore resources and sign up to receive our monthly e-newsletter at alexandriava.gov/SAPCA

Share links to your organization, illustrating your partnership at work with ACPS. 

Here is a link to our February 2026 Newsletter.