The increased use of e-cigarettes or vaping devices has our nation currently experiencing an outbreak of severe lung injuries.  The U.S. Surgeon General has declared youth e-cigarette usage a health epidemic. Unfortunately, Texas is near the top of the list with the number of reported cases. In La Vernia ISD, we are committed to the safety of our students, and as these numbers continue to rise, it’s important to help students understand the risks. Frequent reminders on the dangers associated with vaping have also been provided, yet we continue to witness an increase of students vaping, or in possession of vaping devices while on school grounds. Using, selling, distributing, or possessing an e-cigarette, electronic vaping device, personal vaporizer, or electronic nicotine delivery system is a violation of the La Vernia ISD Student Code of Conduct. 

The State of Texas sees the problem and has issued severe consequences in Senate Bill 2428 mandating Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) for a student found possessing or using an e-cigarette.  Any student caught violating the Code of Conduct with a vaping e-cigarette related offense will be placed in the Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP).  

Please take a moment to review these resources with your students, and visit TX Say What to download additional resources that can help you have conversations with your students to protect them from the dangerous trend of vaping.