The Texas Education Agency is clarifying what schools can and cannot do under the state’s new Parents Bill of Rights law, which took effect this year.
Senate Bill 12 requires parental permission before students receive school-based health care services, leading to concerns that even simple first aid might be restricted.
In updated guidance, TEA says staff may still provide basic care - including Band-Aids, temperature checks, or a change of clothes - without getting a parent’s signature. The agency said the clarification is meant to clear up confusion for teachers and school nurses who worried routine caretaking could put them in violation of state law.
The law, championed by state leaders, was designed to give parents more control over health care decisions in schools. But critics argue it adds unnecessary paperwork and could delay needed services for children.
School districts are now expected to implement the updated rules as the school year continues.
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