MN SF2792

School districts must report student-to-school counselor ratios for grades K-8 and grades 9-12 to the department beginning in the 2016-2017 school year.

Districts with ratios exceeding the national average must submit a plan to meet national average ratios within two school years.

The department must report the current national average student-to-school counselor ratio by February 1, 2015, and every five years thereafter.

The Commissioner of Education, University of Minnesota President, and Minnesota State Colleges and Universities Chancellor must establish an advisory task force by July 1, 2014, to research and recommend strategies for increasing diversity among teachers and school counselors.

The task force must analyze demographic data, recommend programs to address diversity gaps through the 2030-2031 school year, and submit recommendations to the commissioner by January 6, 2015, with legislative reporting by January 13, 2015.