Illinois House Bill HB2384

Illinois 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/14/23
• Refer: 2/28/23
• Refer: 2/14/23
• Refer: 5/19/23

Caption

SCH CD-SCHOOL COUNSELORS

Impact

If enacted, HB2384 will significantly alter the obligations of school districts in terms of staffing and resources dedicated to counseling services. It extends a legal requirement rather than leaving it as an optional guideline, fostering a more consistent standard across districts. This is anticipated to enhance student outcomes by providing necessary counseling services more regularly and effectively. The emphasis on meeting monthly with students signals a shift towards prioritizing mental health and emotional wellness in educational environments.

Summary

House Bill 2384, introduced by Rep. Cyril Nichols, amends the Illinois School Code with the goal of improving the availability and quality of school counseling services within public schools. The bill mandates that school districts must employ sufficient counselors to maintain a student-counselor ratio of no more than 250 to one. This change is intended to ensure that students receive appropriate support for their academic and emotional needs. In addition, the bill requires that school counselors meet with their assigned students at least once per month, fostering ongoing relationships and support structures.

Contention

Key points of contention around HB2384 involve the funding and implementation of these counseling mandates. Critics may argue about the financial burden that maintaining compliance with the new staffing requirements will impose on school districts, particularly those that are already facing budgetary constraints. Additionally, there may be concerns regarding the availability of qualified counselors to meet the new standards, as well as variability in how effectively districts can implement these counseling services. Stakeholders may also highlight the need for training and support for counselors to adequately address the diverse needs of students.