This bill establishes specific requirements for school counselor certification and outlines the roles and responsibilities of school counselors in New Jersey. It defines a school counselor as an individual holding a New Jersey standard educational services certificate with a school counselor endorsement. The bill mandates that school counselors provide comprehensive services addressing the academic, career, social, and emotional development of students, including individual planning, short-term counseling, and collaboration with families and educators. Additionally, the State Board of Education is tasked with setting professional development requirements for school counselors, which must include training in mental health awareness, crisis intervention, and social and emotional learning programming.

Furthermore, the bill creates the position of State School Counselor Liaison within the Department of Education, who will be responsible for promoting best practices in school counseling and addressing the mental and behavioral health needs of students. The Liaison will serve as a resource for school counselors, facilitate professional development, and monitor changes in school counseling practices. The bill emphasizes the importance of social and emotional learning in school districts' reopening plans, particularly in light of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and aims to enhance the overall effectiveness of school counseling services in New Jersey.