- San Marcos Consolidated ISD
- Senate Bill 12: Parental Notification and Consent for Mental-Health Related Services
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Senate Bill 12 Parental Consent for Mental-Health Related Services
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This legislation mandates that parents/guardians are fully informed and give permission for care and support. In a serious emergency, staff will still act to protect your child’s safety and will contact you immediately. Staff may verbally inquire about a student’s daily well-being.
Providing consent allows your child access to timely and equitable services supporting your child’s health, safety, wellness, and readiness to learn. Without your consent, staff will be limited in the services they can provide for your child during the school day.
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**Parents should submit the completed Parental Consent for Mental Health-Related Services form to the campus principal or school counselor.**
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What are "routine" school-based physical and mental health services?
Physical health services include vision, hearing, and scoliosis screenings, as well as management of chronic health conditions such as diabetes and asthma. These services also cover routine medication administration and support for students with ongoing medical needs.
Mental health services include short-term individual counseling and check-ins, social-emotional learning activities, group support sessions, assistance during times of emotional distress, and behavioral observations and problem-solving strategies.
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Why do we need to complete the consent form?
In accordance with the new Texas law, Senate Bill 12, written consent is required for your child to receive school-based physical and mental health services from qualified district personnel.
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Can parents withdraw consent at any time in the school year?
Parents have the right to provide or withhold consent for their child to receive mental health services, including individual and small group counseling. Consent can be granted or revoked at any time.
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How long is consent valid?
The consent is valid for the current school year and must be renewed each year.
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What happens if parents do not give consent?
If a parent selects “No” on the consent form, school nurses, counselors, social workers, athletic trainers, and all other certified district health and mental health personnel will not be able to provide ongoing counseling, regular check-ins, or follow-up support for the student. However, students will always receive emergency interventions if they are in danger or at risk of harm. School employees may still ask general questions about a student’s daily well-being.
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If parents do not consent to their child receiving mental health-related services, can a staff member refer students to outside agencies for additional resources?
No, San Marcos CISD employees will not be able to refer students for additional resources that are health and/or mental health-related.
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Will I be notified if my child is recommended for individual or small group counseling?
If your child is referred for additional counseling services—such as individual or small group counseling—you will be notified. Please note that your written consent is required before these services can be provided.
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Does Senate Bill 12 affect academic advising or collect readiness services?
No. Academic advising, college readiness, and support for post-secondary planning are not part of Senate Bill 12. These services remain fully available to all students without additional parent consent.
