Emily Davis — Mustangs Ahead
(LAKEWOOD RANCH, FL) — Putting a stop to vaping is a group effort.
Vaping has long been a known issue in schools across America. Efforts such as bathroom detectors have been made to put a stop to it, but to make a real impact it seems more must be done.
At Lakewood Ranch High School (LRHS), efforts are made to decrease student tobacco use and vaping. Possession or use of such products is considered a level three offense and students found will be assigned one to two days In School Suspension (ISS) or up to five days Out of School Suspension (OSS).
LRHS Assistant Principal Becky Satterly said that these efforts “reflect LRHS’s commitment to both enforcing school policies and supporting students who may be struggling with addiction.”
Efforts to stop vaping can go beyond campus she said.
“Parents play a vital role in this effort,” Satterly stated. “One simple way they can help is by periodically checking their student’s backpack at home. You’d be surprised how much trash—and even a missing assignment or two—can accumulate at the bottom! LRHS encourages parents to reach out to the school counselor or discipline dean if they suspect their student may need support with vaping.”
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According to the Annual National Youth Tobacco Use Survey, in 2024, 1.63 million youth reported current e-cigarette use compared to 2.13 million in 2023. This decrease is largely associated with the FDA’s priority on increasing the age requirements on tobacco products sales.
Ideally, this number should continue to decrease, with more efforts being made at a local level. The School District of Manatee County has a strict no-vaping policy. Any vaping devices found are immediately confiscated by staff, and students will be assigned two days of In-School Suspension (ISS).
Per Florida Statute 322.056, any other violations of Florida vaping statutes while on school grounds may result in an automatic civil citation and forfeit of student’s driver’s license.