Bill > HB59

This bill amends Georgia's education funding law to reduce the ratio of students per school counselor from 450 to 250 full-time equivalent students, effectively requiring more counselor positions in schools. The bill specifies that program weights (a funding calculation method) for various educational programs, including kindergarten, primary, middle school, alternative education, and high school programs, will now reflect funding for one counselor per 250 students. Additionally, starting in Fiscal Year 2015, program weights for English language learners and programs for students with disabilities will also generate counselor funding, and from Fiscal Year 2016, programs for intellectually gifted and remedial education students will similarly contribute. The bill mandates that the state board establish duties for these counselors, requiring that at least five-sixths of their time be dedicated to directly counseling or advising students and parents. The legislation will take effect upon the Governor's approval or when it becomes law without approval, and it repeals any conflicting laws.

Education

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/69371