We’re sharing a new resource now available on our website: the School Social Workers’ Guide to Senate Bill 12 (The Parents’ Rights Bill). This guide was developed to support school social workers as they navigate the complex ethical and practice challenges created by SB 12. The law has had a significant impact on how school-based professionals in Texas can engage with students, particularly around issues of confidentiality, identity, mental health, and family engagement.

The guide walks through some of the most common questions we’ve heard from school social workers across Texas, including how SB 12 intersects with the NASW Code of Ethics, how to approach documentation, what to consider when responding to parent requests, and ways to continue supporting students within the bounds of the law.

We know school social workers are doing critical work every day, often in complicated and emotionally charged situations. Our goal with this resource is to provide practical guidance that supports ethical practice and helps you navigate how to support your students while staying within the requirements of the law. We encourage you to review the guide and share it with your teams. The NASW Texas Chapter remains committed to supporting our members and advocating for social workers, and we sincerely thank you for your ongoing dedication to your students and communities.