SB1566 Summary

• Amends 70 O.S. 2011, Section 6-194 to add requirements for certified school counselors' professional development by July 1, 2017.

• Requires the State Board of Education to establish that certified school counselors obtain knowledge and skills to recognize indicators of mental illness and behavioral distress, including depression, trauma, violence, youth suicide, and substance abuse.

• Requires certified school counselors to identify professional resources to help students in crisis.

• Allows school counselors to receive at least one-third of annual professional development hours through programs and courses specifically designed for school counselors.

• Becomes effective July 1, 2016, with an emergency clause declaring immediate necessity for preservation of public peace, health, and safety.