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East Lycoming School District is developing a multi-layered strategy around vaping.
The matter was addressed before the board last month by a concerned parent.
District Superintendent Dr. Mark Stamm in his report explained:
"I want to be clear first, that there always has been a planned approach to educate students on the risks of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco use and policies around deterrence. Beyond that, we are trying to step back and re-examine what is being said about vaping in schools, accurately understand what is occurring, and assess the effectiveness of those measures."
To summarize what is being done at this point, Rick Reichner, junior high principal, and Tom Coburn, high school principal, reviewed and addressed un-monitored access to locker rooms.
Those facilities are now locked when a teacher is either not physically attending to that space.
"This will cause some changes to the ease of access of athletes who are accustomed to using this as an equipment drop location before school," he said, "but that is something we can work through. For safety and security, students can not be permitted in unmonitored locker rooms or classrooms."
Additionally, health classes have expanded their current approach to educating students on the dangers of vaping by layering in special programs from the state Department of Health focused on vaping awareness and deterrence. This two-day program was presented to Hughesville High School students taking health earlier this month and will be expanded moving forward.
"I am meeting with physical education/health staff early next week to discuss what those plans are and how the district can support them," Stamm said.
Meanwhile, the high school principal is working with his advisory group of students to better understand the prevalence of vaping among students and their opinions on how best to approach this, he noted.
Overall, staff awareness and education programs are being explored for upcoming in-service days to ensure they are informed and aware of signs, symptoms, and a referral process.
"This discussion is ongoing as we continue to look both at education and deterrence as means to help students make wiser choices around health and wellness."
Capital projects approach start date
East Lycoming School District capital projects are on the cusp of getting started at the physical facilities.
District Superintendent Dr. Mark Stamm has briefed the school board and public on the cafeteria expansion and fine art classrooms renovations.
Mobilization for this project will begin on or about Monday, he said.
"I am excited to see it get started and look forward to the finished addition and renovations in August. As construction begins, we are emphasizing with contractors the
importance of student and staff safety during arrival, dismissal, and throughout the school day."
Jobs progress meetings will be held weekly and Fidevia is providing flexible onsite construction management services as needed.