The bill amends section 15.1-06-19 of the North Dakota Century Code to establish requirements for school counselor positions within school districts. It mandates that each district must make a reasonable effort to provide one full-time equivalent school counselor for every 300 students in grades seven through twelve and for every 300 students in grades kindergarten through six. The bill allows for up to one-third of the full-time equivalency requirement to be fulfilled by career advisors, who must hold specific certifications.

Additionally, the bill introduces new requirements for school districts to demonstrate their efforts in meeting the counselor staffing requirements. This includes actively recruiting qualified counselors or career advisors, exploring alternative methods to address student needs if a full-time position is unfilled, and documenting these actions. Furthermore, school districts are required to provide this documentation upon request.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-06-19