An act relating to school counselors

S.265 requires Vermont school counselors to spend at least 80% of their time providing direct or indirect student services, such as academic, career, or social-emotional counseling, rather than administrative tasks. The bill defines "direct services" as face-to-face or virtual counseling with students and "indirect services" as counselor actions on behalf of students, while limiting "school support services" (like substitute teaching or testing coordination) to no more than 20% of their time. It applies to licensed school counselors or those with a master’s degree in counseling, as defined in the bill. The requirement takes effect July 1, 2026, aligning with the ASCA National Model recommendations.