Houston ISD Votes to Restrict Uncertified Chaplains from Serving as School Counselors

Houston ISD-appointed board managers have made a decision to prevent uncertified chaplains from serving as school counselors. This vote comes in response to a law passed in May that allowed such hires to address the shortage of mental health professionals available to students.

However, the board managers clarified that chaplains with the appropriate qualifications are still eligible for hire. Christi Brewster, a former nurse at North Forest High School, expressed her support for chaplains but emphasized that they should not replace certified counselors. She highlighted the importance of having trained professionals who understand the complexities of mental health and can provide appropriate resources to students in crisis.

To qualify for a school counselor position at HISD, candidates must have a master’s degree in Counseling and Guidance from an accredited college or university, a Texas Education Agency Counselor Certification, two years of teaching experience, and a working knowledge of computers.

Rabbi Josh Fixler with Emanu El of Houston raised concerns about the law, stating that it raises issues regarding the separation of church and state. He believes that religious individuals entering public schools as chaplains could potentially blur this line.

School boards across Texas have until March 1 to vote on whether to authorize their campuses to hire chaplains as mental health support providers. However, it is crucial to ensure that individuals working with students in times of tragedy and crisis are properly trained and follow established policies and protocols.

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