In Cypress, Texas, parents from the Cy-Fair Independent School District gathered for Thursday evening’s board meeting to express their reservations about Senate Bill 763, a law passed during the 2023 Texas legislative session. This law mandates that all school districts must decide by March 1 whether to permit religious leaders to be employed as school counselors.
Dr. Tara Cummings, a parent and licensed mental health clinician, voiced her opposition to SB-763, stating concerns about its potential dangers. She highlighted the lack of oversight and recourse for chaplains who may not meet the same qualifications and standards as certified school counselors.
Under this policy, chaplains would not necessarily need to fulfill the usual qualifications, such as holding a master’s degree and having classroom teaching experience, which are required for school counselors.
Rev. Les Carpenter of St. Aidan’s Episcopal Church in Cypress emphasized the distinction between therapy provided by trained counselors and pastoral care offered by chaplains. He expressed concerns about potential harm that could result from unqualified individuals assuming the role of school counselors.
However, Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston, a co-author of the bill, sees faith-based leaders as valuable assets in addressing the shortage of mental health professionals available to students. He believes that chaplains, with their life experiences and theological backgrounds, can positively influence students’ mental health.
While several districts in the Greater Houston area have rejected the policy, Cummings fears that Cy-Fair ISD may pass it. She worries that allowing chaplains in schools could blur the line between church and state and infringe upon parental rights.
The law prohibits registered sex offenders from serving as chaplains in schools, but Rev. Carpenter questions the efficacy of the vetting process for chaplains seeking counselor positions.
The Cy-Fair ISD Board of Trustees discussed the chaplain policy and heard public comments during the meeting, with the official vote scheduled for Monday. The district declined to provide comment on the matter.
