The bill amends the Code of West Virginia to require each county to employ two school counselors for every 1,000 students in net enrollment, effective August 1, 2025. This requirement is clarified to ensure it does not increase the number of eligible professional student support personnel positions mandated under the public school support program. Additionally, counties are permitted to follow specific counselor-to-student ratios, allowing for one counselor for every 400-450 students in elementary and middle schools, and one counselor for every 250-300 students in high schools.

Furthermore, the bill outlines the responsibilities and training requirements for school counselors, emphasizing their role in providing developmental, preventive, and remedial guidance to students. It mandates that school counselors spend at least 80% of their work time in direct counseling with students and limits their involvement in administrative tasks. The bill also establishes a framework for ongoing professional development, requiring counselors to participate in training related to career counseling, academic planning, and personal/social counseling every two years.

Statutes affected:
Introduced Version: 18-5-18band, 18-9A-8
Committee Substitute: 18-5-18band, 18-9A-8
Engrossed Committee Substitute: 18-5-18band, 18-9A-8
Enrolled Committee Substitute: 18-5-18b