July 24, 2023
Dear Parents/Guardians,
School districts throughout the nation, including Ponca City Public Schools, have seen an increase in the student use of electronic cigarettes and vaping pens. According to the latest data, 1 out of every 4 Oklahoma high school students use vaping products. Common additives used in such devices include nicotine and flavorings. These substances are proven to have negative effects on adolescent brain development. Additionally, e-cigarettes are devices that can be used as a delivery system for cannabinoids (such as marijuana) and potentially other illicit drugs.
Currently, the use and possession of all tobacco products is illegal for those under the age of 21. Students are not permitted to use or possess tobacco products, electronic smoking devices or their components (including lighters) at school or school sanctioned events or transportation.
Parents and guardians are vital in fighting and preventing the adolescent use of vaping pens. Research shows that talking to your kids about the dangers of vaping and other drugs can cut their risk of future misuse in half. It’s not enough, though, to tell your child once that using e-cigarettes and other drugs is bad. Parents armed with specific information about the dangers of vaping and illicit drugs who create an ongoing, open discussion about their use, have students who are much less likely to initiate use of these drugs.
The Community Health Foundation of Kay County is holding a free, one-night event to educate parents and guardians specifically about vaping and marijuana use in adolescents. Topics covered will include the short-term and long-term effects of these substances in adolescents; identifying commonly used vaping and marijuana devices; signs a student may be using a vape and/or marijuana; resources to help a student quit if they are already using; and the local legal consequences for students found with vaping pens or marijuana paraphernalia. The educational session will be held on Tuesday, August 8 at 6:30 at the Pioneer Technology Center. Speakers include Andrew Pearson, Youth Tobacco Prevention Coordinator with the Oklahoma State Department of Health; Dr. Aaron Weiner, addiction psychologist; and Chief Don Bohon with the Ponca City Police Department. There will also be a question-and-answer time for attendees with all three speakers.
It is our hope that through the efforts of home and school, our students will refrain from using vaping devices. We strongly encourage you to attend the August 8th event and have a conversation with your child(ren) about the dangers of e-cigarettes. To register for this free event, scan the QR code below. To learn more about this event, please contact Kelli Northcutt, CHF Director, at chfkayco@gmail.com.
Sincerely,
Adam Leaming
Superintendent of Schools
AL/lag
613 E. Grand Ponca City OK 74601-5511 Phone: 580 767 8000 Fax: 580 767 8007