MS HB959

Allocates funds under the Adequate Education Program starting in fiscal year 2011-2012 to employ one elementary school counselor per school district, with additional counselors funded each subsequent year until every elementary school has at least one state-funded counselor.

Prioritizes funding allocation to school districts with the lowest accreditation levels and greatest documented need, based on records showing highest incidences of crime, violence, free lunch participation, and dropouts.

Establishes a minimum counselor-to-student ratio of 1:500 in elementary schools or one counselor per school building, whichever is greater, and requires counselors to hold at least a Master's Degree in Guidance and Counseling.

Requires counselors to spend at least 75% of work time in direct counseling relationships with students and limits administrative duties to no more than 25% of the work day.

Authorizes the State Department of Education to employ a supervisor of counselors to oversee both new elementary programs and existing secondary counseling programs.