summary
Introduced
12/30/2025
12/30/2025
In Committee
01/07/2026
01/07/2026
Crossed Over
Passed
Dead
Introduced Session
2026 Regular Session
Bill Summary
An act relating to school counselors; amending s. 1012.34, F.S.; requiring that evaluation criteria for certified school counselors be based on specified standards; amending s. 1012.55, F.S.; providing that persons seeking employment as school counselors are exempt from specified educator certification requirements; authorizing school districts to require such persons to meet certain requirements as a condition of employment; providing an effective date.
AI Summary
This bill modifies how school counselors are evaluated and certified in Florida, with changes taking effect on July 1, 2026. Firstly, it amends the criteria for evaluating certified school counselors, requiring their performance evaluations to be based on the Florida School Counseling Standards, rather than the general Florida Educator Accomplished Practices that apply to other instructional personnel. Secondly, it creates an exemption for individuals seeking employment as school counselors from certain educator certification requirements, specifically those outlined in section 1012.56(2)(g) and (i) of Florida Statutes, though school districts can still choose to require these certifications as a condition of hiring.
Committee Categories
Budget and Finance
Sponsors (1)
Other Sponsors (2)
Education Pre-K - 12 (Senate), Rules (Senate)
Last Action
CS/CS by Rules read 1st time (on 02/19/2026)
Official Document
bill text
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...
bill summary
Loading...