Panhandle ISD: No Vapes

As school districts across the state and Panhandle begin the new year, many are taking measures to curb the use of cell phones and smart watches. Perryton, for example, announced such a policy recently.

Other districts are trying to combat the infiltration and usage of drugs and vapes on their campuses. We told you last week about the Hereford ISD partnering with the local police department.

Panhandle ISD officials say they too, are seeing an increase in vape usage in younger students, and are seeking to bring those numbers down.

District officials say contrary to popular belief, vaping is not a safe alternative to smoking. Panhandle High School Principal Chris MacKeown adds his staff is trying to educate students on the dangers of vaping.

A 2023 CDC report notes 10 percent of middle and high school students use tobacco in some form, adding students are using vapes more than any other product.

Texas legislature passed a house bill which sets a mandatory punishment for students caught with vaping products.

The law requires schools to place those students in an alternative school for the first offense, with the punishment rising after each infraction.