In 1992, surveys were administered to 3,454 students in grades 7 to 12 at 83 Nebraska schools. Students from schools with assistance programs had lower rates of alcohol use in the preceding 30 days compared with students from schools without such programs, and they also demonstrated a significant difference in academic achievement. These findings support the 1990 report of the National Commission on Drug Free Schools, which recommended that every school establish a student assistance program to help students who have alcohol, tobacco or other drug problems. These problems ultimately will affect students’ ability to remain in school and succeed at academic endeavors. The article recommends further research to demonstrate the effectiveness of student assistance programs. Figure, tables, references