A recent surge in vape use has swept through school environments, creating challenges for students and staff alike. Vaping in school is not only affecting students’ ability to concentrate in class but is also becoming a concerning trend for those seeking an escape from academic pressures.
According to the Texas State School Safety Center, “E-cigarettes are electronic devices designed to look like regular cigarettes or youth-friendly items such as USB flash drives, pens, highlighters, lipstick, or other cosmetics.” This design, paired with flashy colors and flavors, appeals directly to young audiences, making vaping both accessible and attractive.
A report from NEA Today highlights the trend, stating, “According to the survey, 5.9 percent of middle and high school students use e-cigarettes, a decrease from 7.7 percent the previous year. Yet, over a quarter of those users report using e-cigarettes daily.” This high frequency of use among some students underscores the grip that vaping holds over them, often without an awareness of its long-term health effects.
“Students who vape often display signs of elevated heart rates, palpitations, and anxiety,” noted Sarahi Pena, the nurse at Jimmy Carter Early College High School. “You can often see it in their eyes—there’s a lack of control over their eye movements.”
According to Pena, the physiological impact of vaping can lead to lapses in judgment and a lack of awareness in the classroom.
“When students are under the influence, their thought processes slow, making it harder for them to understand and respond to questions. Some don’t answer at all because they can’t fully process what’s being asked,” Pena said.
The effects of vaping, both immediate and long-term, continue to unfold in schools, posing a challenge for educators, healthcare providers, and families as they navigate this complex issue.
