According to reporting by the Skyline, Alpine High School is facing a significant challenge with student vaping on campus, a concern that aligns with national trends. This issue not only jeopardizes student health but also raises questions about how minors are accessing vape devices despite stringent regulations.
Sources of Vape Devices The legal purchase age for vape products is 21, yet Alpine High School students have been acquiring these devices through various means. Local vape shop, Teri’s Vapor Emporium, confirmed to the Skyline that it adheres strictly to ID verification practices, ensuring that no underage sales occur at their establishment. However, students reportedly obtain vapes from family members or via online platforms, where age verification processes are often insufficient.
Enforcement Challenges at School The school’s administration, under Principal Jerret Vickers, is acutely aware of the vaping problem, particularly in areas like the women’s restrooms where surveillance is limited due to privacy concerns. The school faces logistical challenges in monitoring these spaces consistently, given the gender dynamics of the staff able to conduct such checks.
Proactive Educational and Disciplinary Measures Alpine High School has initiated several proactive measures to combat vaping. These include educational efforts detailing the health risks associated with vaping—such as addiction, respiratory issues, and other long-term health problems. The school also enforces strict disciplinary measures in line with Texas Education Administration (TEA) guidelines and has introduced “Two Words,” a character education program aimed at encouraging better decision-making among students, especially athletes.
