Q. We’ve been hearing information about the national vaping epidemic. What is a vape, or electronic cigarette?
A. The National Institute on Drug Abuse defines electronic cigarettes (also called e-cigarettes, vapes or Juuls) as battery-operated devices designed to deliver nicotine with flavorings and other chemicals to users in vapor instead of smoke. These devices have a heating element that vaporizes the liquid nicotine contained within the cartridge. Vaping devices come in all shapes and sizes, and many are designed so they are not recognized in a search. They may look like a flash drive, a pen, or even candy. Vape pens and other e-cigarette devices are incredibly easy to conceal. Unless a parent knows what they’re looking for, they may not realize that their child even owns one.
Q. We understand that Brenham ISD is offering a free special presentation for parents and community members. Tell us about that event.
A. Brenham ISD has partnered with the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library to bring nationally recognized expert Timothy Shoemaker to our parents and community. The Brenham community is invited to join us on Wednesday, February 19 from 5:30-7:00 pm at the Nancy Carol Roberts Memorial Library to learn about the dangers of vaping and how we can keep our children safe. Timothy Shoemaker’s presentation “Save Your Breath” has been delivered in over a dozen states, to more than 500,000 audience members. Admission is free, but seating is limited. We ask you to please visit brenhamisd.net to reserve your seat.
Q. This isn’t the only measure BISD is taking to fight the vaping epidemic. What other steps has BISD taken?
A. We have launched a district-wide anti-vaping campaign that started with a letter from me to our district parents on Monday, January 27 expressing my concern and personally inviting them to join us in this fight. Our board of trustees also adopted a resolution formally stating their concern for our students and publicly supporting our anti-vaping measures. We have developed a parent information webpage that can be found under the parent information tab on our district website and our students will soon be seeing anti-vaping posters on each campus. Additionally, Timothy Shoemaker will also be presenting special student sessions at Brenham Middle School, Brenham Junior High and Brenham High School on Wednesday, February 19 during the school day.
Q. Is vaping addictive?
A. Absolutely. According to the American Lung Association, there is a misconception that vapes are just flavors and steam. That is not true. Vaping is highly addictive. In fact, one JUUL pod can contain as much nicotine as 20 cigarettes or about one pack of cigarettes. Vape pods can also contain toxins and carcinogens, including formaldehyde, propylene glycol and acrolein, which can cause irreversible lung damage. And because vaping is new, we’re still uncovering its long-term health effects.
Q. What else can parents do to keep their children safe?
A. Look for opportunities to start a conversation with your child. Be patient and ready to listen, but know the facts so you can answer their questions. If you have specific concerns, please reach out to a campus administrator or use our Safe2SpeakUp online reporting tool which can be found under Parent Information on the Brenham ISD website.
