Basking Ridge To Crack Down On Vaping

BASKING RIDGE, NJ — Bernards Township Schools Superintendent Nick Markarian is looking to crack down more harshly on vaping in the school district by changing board policies.

Markarian sent out a letter to parents Friday saying he will ask the Board of Education to amend the Student Code of Conduct to specifically outline consequences for any student possessing vaping devices on school grounds or at any school sponsored function. And to make it more clear that vaping devices are being handled as drug paraphernalia.

"Students who are found to be in possession of vaping devices will experience drug screening, counseling and discipline," Markarian said.

The letter follows a presentation on vaping held on Wednesday at William Annin Middle School where district personnel and members of the Bernards Township Police Department spoke about the risks of vaping to parents.

"Vaping has rapidly become a problematic issue among our youth and in our schools so please take the time to familiarize yourself on the subject," Markarian said.

Markarian is looking to educate parents and students that "vaping is not safe and not just water vapor — especially when the vaping devices are charged with illegal drugs."

Parents are also being reminded to complete the voluntary random drug testing program enrollment process for all students in grades 6 to 12. For information on the program click here.

Parents who do not complete the selection process by Dec. 1 will lose the ability to get into the Aspen Portal Access, Markarian said.

Parents who missed the presentation can view the slides by clicking here. A video recording of the meeting can also be accessed here.

(Image via Pixabay: Vaping)

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