A resolution designating the week of February 2 through 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week".
- Bill Number
- S.Res. 596
- Origin Chamber
- Senate
- Congress
- 119th Congress, Session 2
- Policy Area
- Education
- Status
- Passed Senate
- Latest Action
- 2026-02-04: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S495; text: CR S492)
- Last Updated
- 2026-02-09T16:15:56Z
AI-Generated Summary
Purpose
This Senate Resolution (S. Res. 596) aims to recognize the vital contributions of school counselors by officially designating the week of February 2 through 6, 2026, as "National School Counseling Week." It seeks to raise public awareness about the role school counselors play in supporting students' academic, social, emotional, and career development, especially amid challenges like bullying, mental health issues, and school violence.
Key Provisions
- Designation: The Senate declares February 2–6, 2026, as National School Counseling Week, aligning with the American School Counselor Association's initiative.
- Encouragement for Observance: Urges people across the United States to participate in ceremonies and activities that highlight how school counselors help prepare students for college, careers, and life as productive community members.
- Supporting Rationale: The resolution includes "Whereas" clauses outlining the importance of school counselors, such as their advocacy for students, assistance with financial aid awareness, fostering positive school environments, and addressing trauma. It notes challenges like high student-to-counselor ratios (national average of 376:1, exceeding the recommended 250:1) and budget-related cuts to counseling positions.
Significant Changes to Existing Law
This is a non-binding resolution with no legal force, so it introduces no changes to existing laws or regulations. It does not allocate funds, mandate actions, or alter policies; it serves as a symbolic gesture to promote awareness.
Potential Impacts
- On Citizens: May increase public appreciation for school counselors, potentially leading to greater community support for their roles and indirectly encouraging schools to maintain or expand counseling programs. Students, parents, and educators could benefit from heightened focus on mental health and academic readiness.
- On Government Agencies: Minimal direct impact, as it does not require action from federal or state agencies. However, it could influence future education policy discussions, such as funding for school counseling under the Department of Education.
- On International Relations: No impact, as the resolution is focused entirely on domestic education and youth support.
Main Stakeholders Affected
- School Counselors and Associations: Directly benefits professionals in this field and organizations like the American School Counselor Association by validating their work and advocating for better student-to-counselor ratios.
- Students and Schools: Highlights support for youth facing daily challenges, potentially improving school climates and access to guidance on academics, emotions, and careers.
- Educators, Parents, and Communities: Encourages broader involvement in recognizing counseling's role, which could foster safer learning environments and better preparation for college and jobs.
- Policymakers: Sponsors (a bipartisan group of 24 senators) and future legislators may use this to push for related education reforms.
Notable Legal, Constitutional, or Political Implications
- Legal/Constitutional: None significant, as Senate resolutions like this are ceremonial and do not require presidential approval or create enforceable obligations. They align with Congress's power to recognize events under Article I but carry no binding effect.
- Political: Demonstrates bipartisan support for education and mental health initiatives, potentially signaling broader congressional interest in addressing youth challenges without partisan division. It underscores ongoing concerns about underfunded school resources, which could inform future debates on education budgets.
This summary was generated by AI and may contain inaccuracies. Refer to the official source document for the authoritative text.
Sponsor
Cosponsors (21)
Sen. Collins, Susan M. [R-ME], Sen. Blumenthal, Richard [D-CT], Sen. Blunt Rochester, Lisa [D-DE], Sen. Booker, Cory A. [D-NJ], Sen. Cantwell, Maria [D-WA], Sen. Duckworth, Tammy [D-IL], Sen. Durbin, Richard J. [D-IL], Sen. Hassan, Margaret Wood [D-NH], Sen. Hirono, Mazie K. [D-HI], Sen. King, Angus S., Jr. [I-ME], Sen. Klobuchar, Amy [D-MN], Sen. Luján, Ben Ray [D-NM], Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA], Sen. Merkley, Jeff [D-OR], Sen. Padilla, Alex [D-CA], Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT], Sen. Schiff, Adam B. [D-CA], Sen. Shaheen, Jeanne [D-NH], Sen. Smith, Tina [D-MN], Sen. Van Hollen, Chris [D-MD], Sen. Wyden, Ron [D-OR]
Recent Actions
- 2026-02-04: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent. (consideration: CR S495; text: CR S492)
- 2026-02-04: Passed/agreed to in Senate: Submitted in the Senate, considered, and agreed to without amendment and with a preamble by Unanimous Consent.
Bill Versions
- Designating the week of February 2 through 6, 2026, as National School Counseling Week. — issued 2026-02-04 — PDF (3 pages)