Key Issues

Among the emerging issues that negatively impact student success and health are the use of electronic cigarette and vaping devices, increasing nicotine addiction among youth, and the "triangulum" of tobacco, cannabis, and vaping use.

Vaping products are changing quickly and many are designed to appeal to young people. New devices are small, easy to hide, and often come in fruity or sweet flavors, making them more tempting for teens and harder for adults to notice. 

Nicotine pouches, like Zyn, contain powdered nicotine and are placed between the lip and gum. The nicotine is absorbed through the mouth lining into the bloodstream without requiring spitting. There are no safe tobacco products, including nicotine pouches. 

The Triangulum refers to the intersection of tobacco, marijuana, and e-cigarettes, the latter being a delivery device for both, in addition to other substances. According to the California Department of Public Health (CDPH), cannabis can adversely affect the health of youth.

• Like cigarettes, smoking cannabis can be harmful to your lungs.
• Edibles may have higher concentrations of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). If you eat too much, too fast, you are at risk for poisoning. 
• Using cannabis regularly during teenage years and early 20s may lead to physical changes in the brain

Below you can find a webinar series, hosted by the California Department of Education (CDE) that explains ways in which TUPE Funded Programs can address the Triangulum. 

What should schools do with confiscated vape waste?

Vaping devices and nicotine solutions are hazardous to both humans and the environment, and must be handled, stored, and disposed of properly.

• Toxic nicotine solutions can seep into the ground, contaminating our environment.
• Lithium-ion batteries found in these devices can cause fires in garbage trucks and landfills; they require proper recycling.
• This managing a mix of hazardous wastes (battery/electronic and nicotine/chemical) makes disposal especially challenging. 

TUPE Funded Programs

Although districts and schools cannot use TUPE funds to cover disposal costs, they can equip staff with education on safely handling vape waste and provide guidance on its proper disposal. For recommendations and more information about managing vape waste, download the resources below.