Pennsylvania House Bill HB1805

Pennsylvania 2023-2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 10/31/23
• Refer: 10/31/23

Caption

Providing for school counseling services.

Impact

The bill aims to standardize the counseling services across all educational institutions within Pennsylvania, requiring certified school counselors to implement comprehensive plans that reflect state-approved frameworks. One critical aspect is the requirement for parental notification and involvement, which includes obtaining written consent for students to participate in various counseling activities. This aspect underscores the emphasis on parental authority over children's involvement in school counseling, aligning with broader political trends emphasizing parental rights in educational settings.

Summary

House Bill 1805 introduces significant amendments to the Pennsylvania Public School Code by establishing clear guidelines for school counseling services. This bill mandates that each school entity develop a structured school counseling plan that encompasses both direct and indirect services aimed at supporting students' academic and career development. Under this new framework, local schools are required to ensure that counseling focuses primarily on academic issues, career guidance, and student behavioral support while explicitly excluding certain topics such as social and emotional learning or critical race theory from counselor frameworks.

Sentiment

Sentiment around HB 1805 appears to be mixed among legislators and educational stakeholders. Proponents laud the bill for reinforcing parental control and ensuring students receive tailored counseling that is academically oriented, promoting academic success and personal safety. Conversely, critics express concerns that by limiting the scope of counseling services, the bill may inadvertently neglect important social and emotional aspects of student wellbeing, potentially leaving students unprepared to address critical issues such as bullying and mental health challenges.

Contention

The bill's focus on parental consent and its exclusion of broader counseling topics are points of contention among various stakeholders. Opponents argue that the narrowing of focus could diminish the effectiveness of school counseling programs by preventing counselors from addressing the full spectrum of student needs. Additionally, the provision that gives parents a private right of action should they feel excluded from the counseling process may escalate tensions between parents and school administrations, raising concerns about overregulation and the potential chilling effect on effective counseling practices.