S.B. No. 1344 introduces a new requirement for public schools in Texas regarding the notification of parents when a school lacks a full-time nurse, school counselor, or librarian for more than 30 consecutive instructional days. The bill adds Section 25.096 to the Education Code, defining key terms such as "librarian," "nurse," and "school counselor," and stipulating that schools must provide written notice to parents or guardians if these positions are not filled. The principal is responsible for ensuring this notice is sent within 30 instructional days of the absence, and schools are encouraged to provide the notice in bilingual formats when necessary.

Additionally, the bill outlines that schools can meet the notification requirement by posting the information on their website, ensuring it is easily accessible. However, this requirement does not apply to school districts or open-enrollment charter schools with fewer than 10,000 students. The provisions of this act will take effect starting with the 2025-2026 school year, and it will become effective immediately if it receives a two-thirds majority vote in both houses of the legislature; otherwise, it will take effect on September 1, 2025.

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