PAULDING COUNTY, Ga. — Parents, listen up: The Paulding County School District is instituting a new vaping policy this year after numerous students were caught vaping in its middle and high schools last year.
It's illegal to vape if you're under 18.
Channel 2's Kristen Holloway talked to Paulding County schools public information officer Jay Dillon about what went into the decision. The policy starts on the first day of school, Aug. 1.
"It's become disruptive to the educational process, not to mention there are potential health consequences, especially young people who are doing this," Dillon said.
This year, if you're a student and you are caught vaping, the first offense is five days of suspension and the second is 10 days.
The third offense is a long-term suspension and potential expulsion.
Holloway learned that last year, some students were rushed to the hospital after using the devices, some of which had THC in them. Officials said the students had allergic reactions to whatever substance they used.
Dillon said students were vaping everywhere.
"It's going on in hallways, some students are even doing it in classrooms, bathrooms," Dillon said. "It's taking place throughout our schools, and we want to put a stop to it."
Dillon hopes the new policy makes it clear to students that vaping is not allowed on campus.
"It will develop consistency in how it’s addressed from school to school, and secondly, it sends a clear message to students that vaping at school and bringing vaping materials to school is not acceptable and there will be serious consequences for that," Dillon said.
The district is asking parents to talk to their children about health-related issues when it comes to vaping and the new policy consequences.
Staff also plan to share health-related information with parents through email next week.
Cox Media Group
