“It’s Everywhere”: Middle and High School Educator Perspectives on Nicotine Use in Schools

Educators report that vapes and e-cigarettes are now the most common tobacco products among students. A new Truth Initiative report found that students begin vaping as early as sixth grade, with usage becoming widespread by ninth and tenth grades. School bathrooms have become hotspots, and educators describe students vaping openly in hallways and even during class.

The impact goes beyond rule-breaking, contributing to teacher burnout and affecting students' academic performance. Many students use vaping to cope with stress and anxiety, leading to nicotine dependence during school hours. Despite school policies and vape detectors, enforcement remains difficult as students become skilled at hiding products. Read more from the Truth Initiative.