Virginia 2025 Regular Session

Virginia Senate Bill SB859

Introduced
1/3/25  
Refer
1/3/25  
Report Pass
1/23/25  
Engrossed
1/27/25  

Caption

School boards; policies relating to volunteer student life counseling and support services.

Impact

The implementation of SB859 would require school boards in Virginia to establish public policies that facilitate the provision of volunteer counseling services while adhering to strict approval protocols. Key provisions include background checks for volunteers, mandated parental consent for student participation, and the necessity of public input before policy adoption. This change aims to broaden the support mechanisms available to students, particularly those facing various life challenges, thereby enhancing mental health resources in schools.

Summary

Senate Bill 859 aims to amend the Code of Virginia to introduce policies related to after-school volunteer student life counseling and support services provided by individuals affiliated with community organizations. The bill outlines specific guidelines for school boards to adopt these policies, ensuring that students have access to support that addresses social, emotional, and personal issues outside of regular school hours. Notably, this legislation emphasizes that these services are distinct from academic counseling and must not interfere with the standard educational environment.

Contention

While proponents of SB859 argue that it fosters a supportive environment for students dealing with personal crises, critics raise concerns about the adequacy of volunteer training and the potential for unauthorized influence in counseling. There may be apprehensions regarding the neutrality of the services, particularly concerning religious affiliations. The bill stipulates that volunteer groups must not express any religious bias, which could be a contentious point in communities with strong religious influences. Critics also question whether the new policies could lead to inconsistency in the quality of counseling services offered across different school districts.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

VA HB2052

School boards; policies for excusing students from attendance at school, religious reasons.

VA SB1043

Public education; student mental health and counseling, definitions, licensure requirements.

VA SB832

Public schools; parental rights to educational transparency.

VA SB1199

Public schools; parental rights to educational transparency.

VA HB2030

School boards; policies or regulations for enrollment of nonresident students, report.

VA HB767

Public elementary and secondary schools; compulsory attendance policies and procedures.

VA SB619

Public elementary and secondary schools; compulsory attendance policies and procedures.

VA HB1592

Public schools; codes of student conduct, policies and procedures prohibiting bullying.

VA SB1072

Public schools; codes of student conduct, policies and procedures prohibiting bullying.

VA SB1325

Standards of Quality; specialized student support positions.

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