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Vaping is a Growing Problem at This NC High School, Principal Says

DENVER, N.C. -- The principal at East Lincoln High School in Denver says vaping at the school has become "rampant."

DENVER, N.C. -- The principal at East Lincoln High School in Denver says vaping at the school has become "rampant."

Principal Marybeth Avery sent an email to parents recently reminding them that students are not allowed to use vapes anywhere on school grounds.

Avery claimed the number of vapes seized since school started is already over 65.

"It just seems too high a number for discipline incidents to be approaching 70 in the 12th week of school," she said.

This year, Lincoln County Schools banned vapes. Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has a similar ban on vapes, as well.

Aaron Allen, the Associate Superintendent of Schools in Lincoln County said,

"Our concern is really looking at it from the unknown," said Aaron Allen, the Associate Superintendent of Schools in Lincoln County. "Research is still inconclusive about the affects vaping has on adults, much less youth."

Vaping leaves a telltale cloud in the air and it can have a fruity smell, but educators have had to educate themselves on the types of devices kids are brining into schools that are getting smaller and less easy to detect.

Allen said high school kids are usually getting their hands on vapes from someone older, as they cannot be sold legally to minors.

"They are buying them and reselling them or there are facilities out there that are not checking IDs and selling to minors," he said.

Principal Avery said she hopes he letter home is a wakeup call for parents.

"I want parents to be aware and alert that students are accessing vapes," said Avery.

Any student caught with a vape or using it on campus will get detention the first time. A second offense could result in a suspension.

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