Johnson advances measure protecting students’ access to counseling

SPRNGFIELD - State Senator Adriane Johnson advanced a measure out of the Senate Education Committee ensuring students' have access to counseling services regardless of citizenship status.

"Access to counseling ensures all students can succeed and are supported, regardless of their backgrounds," said Johnson (D-Buffalo Grove). "By providing access to student counseling without barriers, schools affirm their role as inclusive and supportive environments where all students can grow and prevail."

Senate Bill 469 would make clarifying changes to ensure all students would be served by school counselors regardless of their citizenship status. Research shows that students with access to effective school counselors tend to have better academic outcomes, including higher graduation rates, increased college attendance, and improved academic performance.

"Students face stressors such as academic pressure, financial challenges, and personal issues. For students without stable citizenship status, these stressors can be amplified by concerns about their legal status, discrimination, or family separation," said Johnson. "Counseling provides a safe space to address these unique challenges."

Senate Bill 469 passed the Senate Education Committee Tuesday and heads to the full Senate for further consideration.