The bill amends Minnesota Statutes 2024, section 121A.39, to enhance the role and requirements of school counselors in the state. It encourages school districts to ensure that there is a minimum of one school counselor in every kindergarten through grade 12 school building, replacing the previous recommendation for an adequate student-to-counselor ratio. Additionally, the bill outlines specific responsibilities for school counselors, emphasizing the need for them to provide preventive and developmentally appropriate counseling programs that support students' academic, social, emotional, and career development.

Furthermore, the bill mandates that school counselors spend at least 80 percent of their working time on direct services to students, which includes a range of activities such as individual and group counseling, crisis intervention, and collaboration with families and educators. It also requires school counselors to hold an appropriate license from the Professional Educator Licensing and Standards Board as a minimum employment requirement. This comprehensive approach aims to improve the effectiveness of school counseling services and better support the diverse needs of students.

Statutes affected:
Introduction: 121A.39