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

New provisions have been added to clarify the requirements for school districts in meeting these counselor position mandates. Specifically, districts must actively recruit qualified counselors or career advisors, explore alternative methods to address student needs if a full-time position is unfilled, and document their efforts in these areas. Furthermore, the bill stipulates that school districts must provide this documentation upon request. These changes aim to enhance the availability of counseling services in schools and ensure that districts are held accountable for their staffing efforts.

Statutes affected:
INTRODUCED: 15.1-06-19