VAPING: The consequences

By: Semsa Huric and Rachel Gopaul 

Most students who vape simply are not made aware of the consequences. Consequences not being in the physical manner, but with the law and records that could ruin your life. 

The main concern Officer Knapp, with the Wethersfield Police Department and school resource officer, said, “Since the legal age to vape has changed from 18 to 21, none of our student body should be vaping. However, for those who get caught doing so, any student who is 16 or older will be provided with a ticket. Any minor or person who is 16 or younger is subject to automatic arrest, on top of whatever school punishment is applied.”

For the sixteen and younger students, the court decides where to go from there. We still have no information about how far the court will take the sixteen and older kids if they fail to pay their ticket. 

While most students don't perceive vaping as harmful, science says otherwise. Moreover, the Federal Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is stepping up efforts to keep vaping devices out of the hands of children. 

Wethersfield High School is also trying to find ways for children in our school to learn more about vaping. 

One way the school is trying to educate students on this matter is through online education.  Principal Moore of WHS said “If a student is caught vaping on school grounds, it’s an automatic suspension, a fine, and students have to complete an online program which educates students on matter like the dangers of vaping. This program is 6 hours long and has to be completed before the students returns back to school from their suspension period.”         

---