Expressing support for designation of the week of February 2, 2026, through February 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week".
- Bill Number
- H.J.Res. 148
- Origin Chamber
- House
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Education
- Status
- Introduced
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-02: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- Last Updated
- 2026-04-06T16:41:02Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This joint resolution (H.J. Res. 148) aims to express congressional support for designating the week of February 2 through February 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week." It recognizes the vital role of school counselors in supporting students' academic, social-emotional, and career development, while highlighting challenges like underfunding and high student-to-counselor ratios.
Key Provisions
- Recognition of school counselors' contributions: Acknowledges their work in promoting equitable education, personal and social development, college and career readiness, STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) encouragement, support for military families, and addressing issues like bullying, mental health, school violence, and family problems.
- Awareness of challenges: Notes that school counselors are trained in both education and emotional development but face budget cuts, with the national average student-to-counselor ratio at 376:1, exceeding the recommended 250:1.
- Call to action: Congress honors school counselors and urges the public to observe the designated week with ceremonies and activities to promote awareness of their role in preparing students for successful lives.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding joint resolution with no enforceable changes to existing laws. It does not create new mandates, allocate funds, or alter legal requirements; it serves as a symbolic expression of support.
Potential Impacts
- On citizens and education: May increase public awareness of school counselors' importance, potentially leading to greater advocacy for better funding and staffing in schools, benefiting students' mental health and academic success.
- On government agencies: Minimal direct impact, though it could encourage the Department of Education to highlight counseling programs during the designated week.
- On international relations: None, as the resolution focuses solely on domestic education.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- School counselors: Directly honored, with potential for increased professional recognition and support.
- Students and families: Benefit from emphasized services addressing academic, emotional, and career needs, including those affected by trauma or military deployment.
- Educational institutions: Public schools, where high counselor ratios and budget issues are highlighted, may see indirect pressure for improvements.
- Professional organizations: Groups like the American School Counselor Association gain visibility through the resolution's endorsement of their recommended ratio and initiatives.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal: As a simple resolution, it has no legal force and does not require presidential approval to express Congress's view; it aligns with Congress's power to recognize observances under Article I.
- Constitutional: No implications, as it involves no new powers, rights, or restrictions.
- Political: Symbolically promotes bipartisan support for education and youth mental health, potentially influencing future funding debates without creating controversy or division.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Rep. Sánchez, Linda T. [D-CA-38]
Cosponsors (6)
Rep. Davis, Danny K. [D-IL-7], Rep. Lofgren, Zoe [D-CA-18], Rep. Evans, Dwight [D-PA-3], Rep. Elfreth, Sarah [D-MD-3], Rep. Smith, Adam [D-WA-9], Del. Norton, Eleanor Holmes [D-DC-At Large]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-02: Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce.
- 2026-02-02: Introduced in House
- 2026-02-02: Introduced in House
Bill Versions
- Expressing support for designation of the week of February 2, 2026, through February 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week". — issued 2026-02-02 — PDF (3 pages)