Parental Consent: SB 12

Parental Notification and Consent: Texas Senate Bill 12

During the 89th Texas Legislative Session, lawmakers passed Senate Bill 12, which establishes parental notification and consent requirements for certain student services and school activities. Requirements vary by service: some require advance written consent, while others require notice and an opportunity for parents to decline.

At IDEA Public Schools, we partner with families to support students’ learning, health, safety, and well-being. Texas parents and guardians review notices and complete consent forms through STREAM during registration and re-registration for each child.

What notices and consent forms will I review?

• School clinic and health-related services: Review information about services available at your child’s campus and your options for declining specific services. General caretaking is provided as needed, regardless of consent. First aid may be provided after notice unless you have specifically declined it, subject to applicable law.
• Health-care services and over-the-counter medications: Certain services require written parental consent before they can be provided. In STREAM, you may select which listed over-the-counter medications you authorize qualified staff to administer, consistent with school medication procedures. Additional service-specific forms may be required.
• Mental health, counseling, and student support: Review each service listed on the form and select “Yes, I consent” or “No, I do not consent.” Options include school counseling and social work services, wellness and prevention education, mental health screenings and referrals, and lessons addressing stress management, emotional regulation, coping skills, and social skills.
• Counseling related to human sexuality: Review and complete the separate consent form for counseling services related to human sexuality. This consent applies only to the services described and does not authorize instruction or assistance prohibited by law.
• Student surveys and well-being questionnaires: Review the identified fall and spring student surveys before deciding whether your child may participate. Before a well-being questionnaire or health screening form is administered, you will receive a copy to review and be asked to provide consent.
• School-sponsored clubs and organizations: Provide written permission for your child to participate in the activities described in the consent form, including applicable campus or district-sponsored clubs.
  
  

This law ensures that families are fully informed and actively involved in decisions about their child’s care and participation in school activities. In a serious emergency, staff will always act to protect your child’s safety and will contact you immediately.

Providing consent enables your child to receive timely and reliable access to services that support their health, safety, wellness, and readiness to learn. Without consent, staff may be limited in the support they can provide during the school day.