New VAPE Policy Adopted by USD #399
Comprehensive Tobacco-Free School Grounds Policy
The following policy was approved by the Kansas State Board of Education on December 10, 2019, and by the USD #399 Board of Education on January 13, 2020. The Kansas State Board of Education encourages Kansas school districts to adopt and implement this Comprehensive Tobacco-Free School Grounds Policy.
Students and Staff: The use, possession, or promotion of any tobacco product by any student or staff is prohibited in any district facility; in school vehicles; at school-sponsored activities, programs, or events; and on school-owned or operated property at all times.
Visitors: The use of any tobacco product by parents, contractors, volunteers, and all other visitors is prohibited in any district facility; in school vehicles; at school-sponsored activities, programs, or events; and on school-owned or operated property at all times.
The following definitions apply to this policy.
“Tobacco product” means any product that is made from or derived from tobacco, or that contains nicotine, that is intended for human consumption or is likely to be consumed, whether smoked, heated, chewed, absorbed, dissolved, inhaled or ingested by any other means, including, but not limited to, Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS), cigarettes, cigars, pipe tobacco, chewing tobacco, snuff, or snus. Tobacco product also means any component or accessory used in the consumption of a tobacco product, such as filters, rolling papers, pipes, charging devices, cartridges and any substance used in ENDS, whether or not they contain nicotine. This definition does not include FDA-approved Nicotine Replacement Therapies including transdermal nicotine patches, nicotine gum, and nicotine lozenges.
“Electronic Nicotine Delivery System (ENDS)” means any device that delivers a vaporized solution (including nicotine, THC or any other substance) by means of cartridges or other chemical delivery systems. Such definition shall include, but may not be limited to, any electronic cigarette, vape pen, hookah pen, cigar, cigarillo, pipe, or personal vaporizer. ENDS are not FDA-approved Nicotine Replacement Therapy devices.
“Promotion” includes, but is not limited to, product advertising via branded gear, bags, clothing, any personal articles, signs, structures, vehicles, flyers, or any other materials.
Student violations will result in disciplinary actions as outlined by the school district. Disciplinary actions may include parent/guardian notification, participation in a tobacco & electronic nicotine delivery systems education program, referral to a cessation program, and/or community service. Student violations may be reported to law enforcement if use or possession is deemed to be illegal.
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