Other States Eye Copying Texas in Allowing Chaplains in Public Schools

Texas passed a groundbreaking law this year allowing chaplains in public schools. Now, the concept is gaining support in other states, as lawmakers file proposed bills to follow the lead of Texas. The Texas law requires trustees of public schools to vote by March 1 on whether to allow chaplains to “provide support, services, and programs for students” in their institutions. In Texas, school chaplains now can take on some of the duties of school counselors, who have been in short supply in Texas. They can be volunteers or paid. And they must meet specific standards, such as passing a background check. Convicted sex offenders are banned from serving....