New Douglas County Superintendent Frankie Alvarado in front of the historic former Minden school that serves as the district's headquarters.
Photo by Sarah Drinkwine.
It was a fairly good year on the vape front for the Douglas County School District until two devices that had Ecstasy and fentanyl in addition to marijuana turned up.
Data released on Tuesday by the district indicated that the total number of nicotine vapes confiscated by the schools was 58, with 11 containing THC, so far this school year.
That’s down from 128 nicotine devices during the 2023-24 school year and 31 with THC. Carson Valley Middle School reported two vape pens with other substances in it that year.
The actual incidents for Douglas High School were halved, according to Superintendent Frankie Alvarado.
He said the schools are nonsmoking facilities, so students shouldn’t have any vaping devices.
Confiscated devices are regularly tested for THC and where there’s a suspicion a student can be saliva tested. That’s when the lab looks for other substances, according to Sheriff Dan Coverley.
After the March 26 revelation that those substances were contained in a device Partnership Douglas County responded with a Parents Night on Monday.
Alvarado said that the district is working to continue reducing numbers of devices in the schools.
“Principal (Mike) Rechs and the Douglas High School administrative team and staff have worked diligently to respond to all reports of vaping,” he said. “Their efforts have been coordinated with the school resource officers assigned to the campus. The same goes for our middle school administrative teams, staff, and school resource officers. We are committed to implementing additional steps to strengthen our approach.”
He said the high school is working to bring Steered Straight back for Douglas High School students.
“Comprehensive education is the cornerstone of efforts to eliminate vaping among our students,” Alvarado said. “By providing students, parents, and educators with accurate information about the dangers of vaping, including its harmful effects on physical health, mental well-being, and long-term development, we empower our students to make informed choices. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and community initiatives strengthen the message that vaping is not a harmless habit but a serious public health concern that requires collective action to address.”
Alvarado said the key is the school district’s cooperation with the Sheriff’s Office.
“This partnership plays a crucial role in ensuring safety and fostering a safe and respectful learning environment for students,” he said.
The district is a few months out from the end of the school year, which could bring higher numbers.
“While we are encouraged by the reduction, we recognize that ongoing efforts are needed to maintain and further improve outcomes,” he said. “There is no cause for celebration until vaping is completely eradicated from our schools. Making our parents, students, and staff aware of the vaping crisis among our youth is critical in combating the widespread misinformation, preventing health risks, and fostering a supportive environment that encourages informed choices and healthier habits.”