The bill amends section 15.1-06-19 of the North Dakota Century Code to establish requirements for school counselor positions in school districts. It mandates that each district must make a reasonable effort to provide one full-time equivalent school counselor for every three hundred students in grades seven through twelve and for grades kindergarten through six. The bill allows up to one-third of the full-time equivalency requirement to be fulfilled by career advisors, who must hold specific certifications.

Additionally, the bill outlines the criteria for meeting the counselor requirements, which include actively recruiting qualified counselors or career advisors, exploring alternative methods to address student needs if a full-time position is unfilled, and documenting these efforts. School districts are also required to provide this documentation upon request. The changes aim to enhance the availability of counseling services in schools while ensuring accountability in the recruitment and hiring processes.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-06-19