Zapata County ISD

Welcome: Your Rights Under Texas SB 12

At Zapata County ISD, we’re dedicated to empowering parents with clear, accurate information about the laws that affect your family's role in your child's education. This includes Texas Senate Bill 12, a law designed to affirm and expand parental rights within our public schools.

What is SB 12?
Effective September 1, 2025, SB 12 enshrines the fundamental rights of parents to guide their child’s education, moral and religious training, and medical decisions—rights upheld by both the U.S. and Texas Constitutions. The law clarifies that schools cannot override these rights unless the state demonstrates a compelling interest and uses the least restrictive means to achieve it. 

SB 12 also aims to reduce school policies that may conflict with parental authority by banning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) duties in schools—such as DEI training or consideration of race, gender identity, or sexual orientation in staffing—unless explicitly required by federal or state law.

Further, the law introduces new transparency requirements, including:

• An annual Facility Usage Report—detailing district buildings, capacities, and land usage—that TEA will compile and publish publicly. 

• Requirements for parental notification regarding health-related services, laying out clear guidelines for consent around mental, emotional, and physical health services offered through schools.

Additionally, SB 12 places restrictions on student clubs: schools may no longer authorize or sponsor clubs based on sexual orientation or gender identity, and written parental consent is required for student participation in any school-sponsored club.

Why This Matters to Parents:
SB 12 reinforces your role as a decision-maker in your child’s schooling—from curriculum content and health services to extracurricular activities and school policies. It also increases transparency from schools and the Texas Education Agency, making it easier for you to stay informed and involved.

What You Can Do:

• Expect and review the Parental Rights Form sent by your school at the start of each academic year or upon enrollment; it outlines critical information about your rights and options. Forms may be viewed on the right pane of this site. 

• Watch for detailed notices regarding health services and be prepared to provide or decline consent as needed. Forms may be viewed on the right pane of this site. 

• Stay informed about club policies and your ability to consent to your child’s involvement.

• Explore resources on how SB 12 enhances parental oversight and what it means for your school community.