August 14, 2023

We want to bring to your attention a significant change in the law that directly impacts Lake Travis ISD’s approach to addressing e-cigarette use/vaping at school.

A new state law requires all school districts to implement mandatory Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP) placement for students found in possession of, using, selling, giving, or delivering e-cigarettes (vapes) at school or a school-related event.

Effective at the beginning of the 2023-2024 school year, our school district will be enforcing this new law. This means that any student caught violating the new law will be subject to DAEP placement as follows:

• First offense: 15-day DAEP placement
• Second offense: 30-day DAEP placement
• Third offense: 45-day DAEP placement and criminal charges

Our primary goal is to ensure the well-being and academic success of all students. By enforcing the required DAEP placement for vaping, we aim to discourage the use of harmful substances and create a safer environment that supports the overall health and development of our students.

Vaping poses serious health risks to individuals, particularly young people, due to the presence of harmful chemicals and addictive substances in e-cigarette products. The risks include:

• Health Impact: E-cigarettes can expose students to harmful chemicals and toxins that can damage their lungs, cause respiratory issues, and lead to other long-term health problems.
• Addiction: E-cigarettes often contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Early exposure to nicotine can increase the likelihood of addiction and have a negative impact on brain development.
• Gateway to Other Substances: Studies suggest that vaping can serve as a gateway to other tobacco products and even illicit substances.
• Disruption to Learning: E-cigarette usage can lead to distractions in the classroom, negatively impacting academic performance and overall learning experience.
• Peer Pressure: Students may feel pressured to engage in vaping due to peer influence, which can further exacerbate the problem. 

It is our collective responsibility to educate our students about the risks associated with vaping and to encourage them to make informed decisions that prioritize their health and well-being. Educators and parents alike can work together to guide our students towards healthier choices and provide them with the necessary support and resources to resist the allure of harmful substances.

We encourage you to have open conversations with your child about the dangers of vaping, and to be aware of their surroundings to ensure they are not engaging in risky behaviors near school property. Together, we can create an environment that promotes positive choices, well-being, and academic success.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. We value your partnership in keeping our students safe and informed.

Sincerely,

Marco Alvarado
Exec. Director for Communications & Community Relations