Latest News and Comment from Education

Friday, September 29, 2023

TEXAS GOV GREG ABBOTT VOWS TO GIVE BIRTH TO AN ALL-NEW 2 TIER JIM CROW EDUCATION SYSTEM

 

TEXAS GOV GREG ABBOTT VOWS TO GIVE BIRTH TO AN ALL-NEW 2 TIER JIM CROW EDUCATION SYSTEM 

In a move that has left many scratching their heads, Texas Governor Greg Abbott has vowed to give birth to an all-new Jim Crow 2 tier education system. The plan involves replacing the current public education system with vouchers for private schools and more charter schools.

Apparently, Abbott fears that Florida, Arkansas, and Oklahoma are going to destroy public schools before he can. So, he plans a special session of legislature to speed up the destruction of public schools. Talk about being proactive!

Abbott's school choice bill is likely to face opposition from Democrats in the Texas legislature, who argue that it will divert funding from public schools and that it will benefit wealthy families at the expense of poor families. But hey, who needs public schools when you can just buy your way into a private one? Abbott seems to think that's a fair trade-off.

If Abbott's school choice bill is passed, it would make Texas one of the largest states in the country to offer school choice to its students. It would also be a major victory for the school choice movement, which has been gaining momentum in recent years. Because who needs equal access to education when you can just throw money at the problem?

The possibility of a school choice bill passing in Texas has caused concern among educational leaders, including superintendents from the two largest school districts in the Brazos Valley. But what do they know? They're just educators with years of experience and knowledge about how to best serve their students. Abbott clearly knows better.

Potential drawbacks of Abbott's plan include diversion of funding from public schools, disproportionate benefit to wealthy families, increased segregation in schools, and reduced accountability for non-public schools. But hey, at least the wealthy families will be happy, right?

The bill, Senate Bill 176, would give families that opt out of the state’s public education system the average amount of money it costs Texas public schools to educate a child, which is currently about $10,000 a year. The money would roll over on a year-to-year basis and could be used to help families pay for higher education. Because why invest in the future of public education when you can just give families some extra cash?

The bill faces strong opposition from public education advocates and some rural Republicans who argue that it would divert money from already underfunded public schools and harm the quality of education for the majority of Texas students. They also point out that private schools are not subject to the same accountability standards and anti-discrimination laws as public schools. But hey, who needs accountability when you have money?

Abbott has said that he is determined to pass school choice legislation in the next session and has threatened to call multiple special sessions or even send the issue to the voters if lawmakers fail to do so. Because clearly, if at first you don't succeed, just keep trying until you get your way.

In conclusion, Abbott's plan for an all-new Jim Crow 2 tier education system may not be popular with everyone, but at least it's good for wealthy families who want to buy their way into a better education. Who needs equal access to education when you can just throw money at the problem? Abbott clearly knows what's best for Texas students. Or at least, he thinks he does.

Bryan and College Station ISD Superintendents advocate for fairness amidst school choice debate https://www.kbtx.com/2023/09/28/bryan-college-station-isd-superintendents-advocate-fairness-amidst-school-choice-debate/ 


THE DEFT DIVE

FROM BARD AI

Governor Greg Abbott of Texas has pledged to push through a school choice bill in the upcoming legislative session. School choice bills typically allow parents to use public funds to send their children to private schools or other non-public schools.

Abbott has been a vocal supporter of school choice for years, and he has made it a priority of his administration. He believes that school choice will give parents more options for their children's education and that it will improve the quality of education in Texas.

Abbott's school choice bill is likely to face opposition from Democrats in the Texas legislature, who argue that it will divert funding from public schools and that it will benefit wealthy families at the expense of poor families. However, Abbott has a strong base of support among Republicans in the legislature, and he is expected to be successful in passing his school choice bill.

If Abbott's school choice bill is passed, it would make Texas one of the largest states in the country to offer school choice to its students. It would also be a major victory for the school choice movement, which has been gaining momentum in recent years.

Here are some of the potential benefits and drawbacks of Governor Abbott's school choice bill:

**Potential benefits:**

  • * Increased parental choice in education
  • * Improved quality of education
  • * Increased competition among schools
  • * Reduced costs for public schools

**Potential drawbacks:**

  • * Diversion of funding from public schools
  • * Disproportionate benefit to wealthy families
  • * Increased segregation in schools
  • * Reduced accountability for non-public schools

It is important to note that there is no consensus on the effects of school choice bills. Some studies have shown that school choice can lead to improved academic outcomes for students, while other studies have shown that it has no significant impact or even a negative impact.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to support Governor Abbott's school choice bill is a complex one. There are valid arguments on both sides of the issue. Voters should carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of the bill before making a decision.


FROM BING AI

Thank you for your interest in the topic of school choice in Texas. Here is some information that I found from my web search:

  • - School choice is a term used to describe programs that give parents state money to send their kids to schools outside of the state’s public education system. The most common are school vouchers, state-sponsored scholarships for private schools that have also become a shorthand when talking about measures that would take taxpayer money from public schools¹.
  • - Governor Greg Abbott has been a longtime supporter of school choice and has made it one of his legislative priorities for the upcoming session in 2023². He has endorsed a bill filed by Senator Mayes Middleton, a Republican from Galveston, that would create an education savings account program that would allow parents to use state funds to pay for their children’s private school, online schooling or private tutors³.
  • - The bill, Senate Bill 176, would give families that opt out of the state’s public education system the average amount of money it costs Texas public schools to educate a child, which is currently about $10,000 a year. The money would roll over on a year-to-year basis and could be used to help families pay for higher education, according to the bill¹.
  • - The bill faces strong opposition from public education advocates and some rural Republicans who argue that it would divert money from already underfunded public schools and harm the quality of education for the majority of Texas students¹. They also point out that private schools are not subject to the same accountability standards and anti-discrimination laws as public schools⁴.
  • - Abbott has said that he is determined to pass school choice legislation in the next session and has threatened to call multiple special sessions or even send the issue to the voters if lawmakers fail to do so². He has also said that he believes support for school choice is at an all-time high among Texas parents who are dissatisfied with public schools’ pandemic rules and teachings on race and gender identity¹.

Bing, 9/29/2023

  • (1) School choice in Texas: What you need to know ahead of next year’s .... https://www.texastribune.org/2022/11/28/texas-school-choice-vouchers/.
  • (2) Abbott says special session on school choice coming in October | The .... https://www.texastribune.org/2023/09/19/greg-abbott-school-choice-special-session-october/.
  • (3) Gov. Greg Abbott pushes savings account for “school choice” policy .... https://www.texastribune.org/2023/01/31/greg-abbott-school-choice-public-education/.
  • (4) Texas Senate passes revamped school voucher bill | The Texas Tribune. https://www.texastribune.org/2023/05/22/texas-senate-school-voucher/.
  • (5) Bill of the Week: Bracing for a School Choice Battle. https://www.austinchronicle.com/news/2023-02-24/bill-of-the-week-bracing-for-a-school-choice-battle/.
  • (6) Texas Gov Abbott makes rare NYC stop where he lauds Dems Adams, Hochul for pressuring Biden on migrant crisis. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/texas-gov-abbott-makes-rare-nyc-stop-where-he-lauds-dems-adams-hochul-for-pressuring-biden-on-migrant-crisis/ar-AA1hoa5N.
  • (7) Gov. Kathy Hochul fires back at unsolicited advice from Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on how to handle asylum seeker crisis. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/gov-kathy-hochul-fires-back-at-unsolicited-advice-from-texas-gov-greg-abbott-on-how-to-handle-asylum-seeker-crisis/ar-AA1hmDyX.
  • (8) NY Gov. Kathy Hochul, Mayor Eric Adams defend Biden for NYC migrant mess after Texas’ Greg Abbott criticism. https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/other/ny-gov-kathy-hochul-mayor-eric-adams-defend-biden-for-nyc-migrant-mess-after-texas-greg-abbott-criticism/ar-AA1hmUGI.
  • (9) Office of the Texas Governor | Greg Abbott. https://gov.texas.gov/.
  • (10) Greg Abbott - Wikipedia. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greg_Abbott.
  • (11) Greg Abbott | Biography, Wife, Accident, & Facts | Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/biography/Greg-Abbott.

ALGEBRA REALLY? A DEEP DIVE INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF ALGEBRA IN LEARNING

 

ALGEBRA REALLY? A DEEP DIVE INTO THE IMPORTANCE OF ALGEBRA IN LEARNING

Listen up, folks! It's time to talk about the most important subject in school: algebra. I know what you're thinking, "Ugh, math? No thanks." But hear me out, because algebra is not just any old math subject. It's the superhero of math subjects. It's the Batman to your Robin. The Wonder Woman to your Superman. The...well, you get the point.

Now, I know some of you may be thinking, "But didn't the Common Core State Standards abandon algebra?" And to that, I say, "Thanks a lot, Bill Gates and all the rest of you brilliant corporate education experts know-it-all self-appointed experts." But fear not, my friends, because two professors at California State Polytechnic University have come to the rescue with a solution to the problem.

According to these professors, the main problem with the American education system's approach to math is that students are pushed through the system too quickly and without adequate understanding of key concepts, particularly algebra. So what's their solution? High school students should be given the same math placement tests as college freshmen, and those with algebraic deficits should be given courses that meet their needs, rather than being rushed into calculus. Genius!

But why is algebra so important to learning? Well, let me break it down for you:

First and foremost, algebra develops critical thinking skills. When you learn algebra, you learn to think abstractly and to solve problems in a logical way. You also learn to identify patterns and relationships in data. These skills are essential for success in many different fields, both academic and professional. Plus, who doesn't love feeling like a genius when they solve an algebra problem?

Secondly, algebra prepares students for higher education. It's a prerequisite for many college courses, including calculus, statistics, and economics. Students who have a strong foundation in algebra are more likely to succeed in these courses and in their college careers overall. So basically, algebra is like a secret weapon for success.

Thirdly, algebra is useful in many careers. I'm talking engineering, science, finance, business...you name it! Students who have a strong foundation in algebra will be more prepared for these careers and will have a better chance of success. Plus, who doesn't love a good paycheck?

And last but not least, algebra helps students understand the world around them. It's used in many real-world applications, such as understanding how interest rates work, how to predict population growth, and how to design bridges. Students who have a strong foundation in algebra will be better able to understand these applications and make informed decisions about their lives. So basically, algebra is like a crystal ball for life.

But wait, there's more! Algebra also has a number of specific benefits for students. For example, it can help improve problem-solving skills, develop logical reasoning skills, teach abstract thinking, improve communication skills, and increase confidence in mathematical abilities. It's like a one-stop-shop for personal growth.

So there you have it folks: algebra really, really matters. It's not just some boring subject that you'll never use again after high school. It's a superhero subject that can help you succeed in school, in your career, and in your everyday life. So the next time you're struggling with an algebra problem, just remember: you're not just solving a problem...you're saving the world!

The K-12 system keeps sending us students who can’t do algebra. Here’s how to fix that. | The Hill https://thehill.com/opinion/education/4227882-the-k-12-system-keeps-sending-us-students-who-cant-do-algebra-heres-how-to-fix-that/ 

Algebra II has to go. https://slate.com/human-interest/2016/03/algebra-ii-has-to-go.html 

It's final: State Board shifts policy on eighth grade Algebra | EdSource https://edsource.org/2013/its-final-state-board-shifts-policy-on-eighth-grade-algebra/25672?

Why San Francisco Stopped Teaching Algebra in Middle School https://www.businessinsider.com/why-san-francisco-stopped-teaching-algebra-in-middle-school-2016-6?ref=yfp 


THE DEFT DIVE


FROM BARD AI

State
Algebra requirement
Alabama
Algebra I or Integrated Math I
AlaskaAlgebra I
Arizona
Algebra I and Geometry
Arkansas
Algebra I or Integrated Math I
California
Algebra I and Geometry
ColoradoAlgebra I
Connecticut
Algebra I and Geometry
Delaware
Algebra I and Geometry
District of Columbia
Algebra I and Geometry
Florida
Algebra I and Geometry
Georgia
Algebra I and Geometry
HawaiiAlgebra I
Idaho
Algebra I and Geometry
Illinois
Algebra I and Geometry
Indiana
Algebra I and Geometry
Iowa
Algebra I and Geometry
Kansas
Algebra I and Geometry
Kentucky
Algebra I and Geometry
Louisiana
Algebra I and Geometry
Maine
Algebra I and Geometry
Maryland
Algebra I and Geometry
Massachusetts
Algebra I and Geometry
Michigan
Algebra I and Geometry
Minnesota
Algebra I and Geometry
Mississippi
Algebra I and Geometry
Missouri
Algebra I and Geometry
MontanaAlgebra I
Nebraska
Algebra I and Geometry
Nevada
Algebra I and Geometry
New Hampshire
Algebra I and Geometry
New Jersey
Algebra I and Geometry
New Mexico
Algebra I and Geometry
New York
Algebra I and Geometry
North Carolina
Algebra I and Geometry
North Dakota
Algebra I and Geometry
Ohio
Algebra I and Geometry
Oklahoma
Algebra I and Geometry
Oregon
Algebra I and Geometry
Pennsylvania
Algebra I and Geometry
Rhode Island
Algebra I and Geometry
South Carolina
Algebra I and Geometry
South Dakota
Algebra I and Geometry
Tennessee
Algebra I and Geometry
Texas
Algebra I and Geometry
Utah
Algebra I and Geometry
Vermont
Algebra I and Geometry
Virginia
Algebra I and Geometry
Washington
Algebra I and Geometry
West Virginia
Algebra I and Geometry
Wisconsin
Algebra I and Geometry
Wyoming
Algebra I and Geometry

Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with symbols and the rules for manipulating them. It is a powerful tool that can be used to solve a wide variety of problems, both in mathematics and in other fields.

There are many reasons why algebra is important to teach in school. Here are some of the most important ones:

  • * **Algebra develops critical thinking skills.** When students learn algebra, they learn to think abstractly and to solve problems in a logical way. They also learn to identify patterns and relationships in data. These skills are essential for success in many different fields, both academic and professional.
  • * **Algebra prepares students for higher education.** Algebra is a prerequisite for many college courses, including calculus, statistics, and economics. Students who have a strong foundation in algebra are more likely to succeed in these courses and in their college careers overall.
  • * **Algebra is useful in many careers.** Algebra is used in a wide variety of careers, including engineering, science, finance, and business. Students who have a strong foundation in algebra will be more prepared for these careers and will have a better chance of success.
  • * **Algebra helps students understand the world around them.** Algebra is used in many real-world applications, such as understanding how interest rates work, how to predict population growth, and how to design bridges. Students who have a strong foundation in algebra will be better able to understand these applications and make informed decisions about their lives.

In addition to these general benefits, algebra also has a number of specific benefits for students. For example, algebra can help students:

  • * Improve their problem-solving skills
  • * Develop their logical reasoning skills
  • * Learn to think abstractly
  • * Improve their communication skills
  • * Increase their confidence in their mathematical abilities

Overall, algebra is an important subject to teach in school because it provides students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in higher education and in their careers. It also helps them to understand the world around them and to make informed decisions about their lives.

Here are some specific examples of how algebra is used in the real world:

  • * **Engineering:** Engineers use algebra to design bridges, buildings, and other structures. They also use algebra to develop new products and technologies.
  • * **Science:** Scientists use algebra to analyze data, develop theories, and make predictions.
  • * **Finance:** Financial analysts use algebra to model markets, assess risk, and make investment decisions.
  • * **Business:** Business owners and managers use algebra to make decisions about pricing, production, and marketing.

Even if students do not pursue a career in one of these fields, algebra can still be useful to them in their everyday lives. For example, algebra can help students:

  • * Understand how interest rates work
  • * Calculate taxes
  • * Budget their money
  • * Make informed decisions about investments
  • * Understand how statistics are used in the news and in other forms of media

Overall, algebra is a valuable subject that can help students to succeed in school, in their careers, and in their everyday lives.


FROM BING AI

Algebra is a branch of mathematics that deals with unknown values and variables, and how to manipulate them to solve equations and problems. Algebra is important for many reasons, such as:

  • - Algebra helps us develop logical and abstract thinking skills, which are useful for solving problems in various domains, such as science, engineering, business, and art.¹²
  • - Algebra is the foundation for more advanced mathematics, such as geometry, calculus, and statistics. These subjects are essential for many careers and fields of study, such as computer science, medicine, economics, and physics.³⁴
  • - Algebra is also applicable to many real-life situations, such as calculating discounts, budgeting, planning trips, analyzing data, and playing games. Algebra helps us understand patterns, relationships, and changes in the world around us.⁵⁶

Therefore, teaching algebra in school is beneficial for students' cognitive development, academic achievement, and future opportunities. Algebra is not just a bunch of meaningless symbols and equations; it is a powerful tool for learning and exploring the world..

Bing, 9/29/2023

  • (1) Why is algebra so important? | Parenting - GreatSchools. https://www.greatschools.org/gk/articles/why-algebra/.
  • (2) What Is Algebra and Why Is It Necessary? - ThoughtCo. https://www.thoughtco.com/what-is-algebra-why-take-algebra-2311937.
  • (3) Why It Is Important To Learn Algebra - EdSource. https://edsource.org/wp-content/publications/pub_algebra_qa_final.pdf.
  • (4) Why Kids Still Need to Learn Algebra | Psychology Today. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/making-sense-chaos/202106/why-kids-still-need-learn-algebra.
  • (5) Studying maths beyond GCSEs helps brain development, say scientists .... https://www.theguardian.com/education/2021/jun/07/studying-maths-beyond-gcses-helps-brain-development-say-scientists.
  • (6) Cognitive Skills and Math | edCircuit. https://edcircuit.com/cognitive-skills-math/.
  • (7) Lack of math education negatively affects adolescent brain and .... https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2021/06/210607161149.htm.
  • (8) 20 Practical Examples Of Algebra In Everyday Life. https://differentbydesignlearning.com/examples-of-algebra-everyday-life/.
  • (9) 7 Examples of Algebra in Everyday Life (Simplified Real-Life .... https://www.mathshowto.com/examples-of-algebra-in-everyday-life/.
  • (10) Fun Algebraic Equations to use in Everyday Life. https://www.intmath.com/blog/mathematics/fun-algebraic-equations-to-use-in-everyday-life-12421.
  • (11) 16 Fun Examples of How Is Algebra Used in Real Life - You've Got This Math. https://youvegotthismath.com/how-is-algebra-used-in-real-life/.


EVERYONE WANTS TO GIVE OKLA SSPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS THE FINGER: YOU SHOULD TOO

EVERYONE WANTS TO GIVE OKLA SSPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS THE FINGER:  YOU SHOULD TOO

In the latest episode of "As the Oklahoma Department of Education Turns," Superintendent Ryan Walters is once again making headlines for all the wrong reasons. This time, he's been caught on camera spouting off about "indoctrination" in schools and getting flipped off by a woman in the background. And frankly, we think everyone should follow her lead.

It's no secret that Walters is a self-proclaimed enemy of "the radical left." He's made a name for himself by spouting all sorts of wacky conspiracy theories and generally making a fool of himself in public. And yet, somehow, he still manages to hold onto his job.

But back to the woman in the video. We don't know who she is, but we do know that she's our new hero. She saw Walters ranting and raving about a "radical, woke, activist judge" and decided she'd had enough. She raised her middle finger in protest, shook her head, and laughed at the absurdity of it all. And honestly, can you blame her?

Walters was on a tirade about an Oklahoma school district that was apparently unsure how to respond after a county judge ordered a student's gender to be changed on school records after they transitioned. He blamed the Biden administration for "trying to force dictates" and warned that we're seeing more and more of this sort of thing.

But here's the thing: Walters is wrong. The Biden administration isn't trying to force anything on anyone. They're simply trying to ensure that transgender students are treated with dignity and respect. And if that means changing their gender on school records, so be it.

Thankfully, the State Board of Education voted to ban school districts from changing the gender of students on school records without the board's permission. The rule went into effect immediately, much to Walters' chagrin.

In case you needed further proof that Walters is a bit of a clown, consider this: he created an email address in March called Parent Watch where parents could notify the state department of education about inappropriate materials in school classrooms and libraries. But instead of genuine tips, the account was flooded with memes, pictures of food and animals, insults, and sexual misconduct stories about religious figures and Republican lawmakers in Oklahoma and across the country.

The Frontier reviewed over 4,000 pages of emails sent to the Parent Watch account during the first week of its existence, but found only one complaint from a concerned parent that appeared to be submitted in good faith. The complaint was about a novel by Talia Hibbert, which the school librarian recommended to her junior high school daughter, but the daughter stopped reading it due to uncomfortable content.

Walters did not respond to requests for comment on whether the State Department of Education followed up with the parent regarding the complaint. Many emailers targeted Walters directly with insults and questions about his policies. We can only imagine how much fun they must have had at his expense.

But wait, there's more! Walters is also facing backlash after claiming that Tulsa Public Schools received money from the Chinese government through a program called Confucius Classroom, which the International Leadership of Texas (ILTexas) allegedly funds. However, ILTexas has denied any involvement and provided a copy of its former agreement with TPS from September 2022, which expired and did not involve the transfer of funds to TPS.

Walters claims that TPS has not been transparent about the former agreement, but records show that the district gave his staff answers four days beforehand. In other words, he's making things up as he goes along.

So what's the lesson here? Well, if you're ever in a meeting with Ryan Walters and he starts spouting off about "indoctrination" or "radical, woke, activist judges," feel free to give him the finger. You'll be in good company. And who knows? You might just make it onto the local news.

Woman Caught Giving the Finger to Anti-Woke Oklahoma School Boss Ryan Walters https://www.thedailybeast.com/woman-caught-giving-the-finger-to-anti-woke-oklahoma-school-boss-ryan-walters 

Ryan Walters asked for tips on inappropriate material in Oklahoma schools, people sent jokes and jeers - The Frontier https://www.readfrontier.org/stories/ryan-walters-asked-for-tips-on-inappropriate-material-in-oklahoma-schools-people-sent-jokes-and-jeers/ 

Walters faces backlash after claiming Chinese government sends money to Tulsa Public Schools | KTUL https://ktul.com/news/local/walters-faces-backlash-after-claiming-chinese-government-sends-money-to-tulsa-public-schools

Culture War | Free Market Principles Work in Education | Oklahoma State ... https://youtu.be/Qx4in0TjB60?si=mn5Wwate3V157LFZ via @YouTube

Big Education Ape: BULLYING 101: OKLA SPI RYAN RASPUTIN WALTERS USING PLAYGROUND TACTICS TO FURTHER HIS POLITICAL CAREER https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/bullying-101-okla-spi-ryan-rasputin.html 

Big Education Ape: FLORIDA AND OKLAHOMA FLAT EARTHER REJOICE: POLITICIANS DEFUND CHINESE LANGUAGE AND CULTURE PROGRAMS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/florida-and-oklahoma-flat-earther.html

Big Education Ape: OKLA MAD MAGA MONK SAYS RED DOESN'T WORK FOR HIM IN OKLA PUBLIC SCHOOLS https://bigeducationape.blogspot.com/2023/09/okla-mad-maga-monk-says-red-doesnt-work.html


Thursday, September 28, 2023

VAPING IN SCHOOLS: ARE THOSE KIDS ON FIRE OR JUST VAPING

 

VAPING IN SCHOOLS:  ARE THOSE KIDS ON FIRE OR JUST VAPING

Vaping in schools has become a hot topic lately, and not just because those kids look like they're on fire. More and more, the dangers of vaping for kids are being learned, and it's time to take action.

First off, let's talk about the dangers. According to the CDC, vaping can expose users to harmful substances such as nicotine, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs. That's right, kids, you're inhaling heavy metals. You might as well be eating paint chips.

But it's not just the heavy metals that are the problem. Vaping can also increase the risk of addiction, lung injury, heart disease, and cancer. So basically, if you're vaping, you're screwed.

So what can be done to prevent vaping in schools? Well, there are a few programs that can be implemented. One is called CATCH My Breath, which is a free, evidence-based program that targets students in grades 5 through 12 and teaches them about the health risks, social consequences, and marketing influences of vaping. Another is the Empower Vape-Free Youth Campaign from the FDA, which provides science-based resources on vaping prevention. And then there's SmokefreeTXT for Teens, a text-based program from the National Cancer Institute that helps young people quit tobacco use by sending them motivational messages, tips, and challenges.

But let's be real here. The best way to prevent vaping in schools is to make it uncool. And what's more uncool than being addicted to heavy metals? Nothing. So let's start a campaign to make vaping as uncool as possible. We can call it "Vaping is for losers" or "Vaping is so 2019." We'll get some celebrities on board, maybe some TikTok stars, and before you know it, vaping will be a thing of the past.

Of course, schools can also do their part by implementing anti-vaping policies and educating students about the dangers of vaping. And parents can talk to their children about the dangers of vaping and monitor their online activity. But let's face it, if we really want to stop kids from vaping, we need to make it as uncool as possible.

Now, some states are taking a more punitive approach to vaping in schools. A new law in Texas increases the punishment for students caught vaping in school, with offenders now being sent to alternative schools. School districts are concerned about the potential overload on the system and the effectiveness of this punitive approach. The law applies to both nicotine and THC vaping devices, with no appeal process for students. Some administrators feel that the punishment is disproportionate and may have lasting consequences for students.

Personally, I think we should take a different approach. Instead of punishing kids for vaping, we should help them quit. We could offer support programs and education on the dangers of vaping. We could even offer incentives for students who quit vaping, like free pizza or something.

In conclusion, vaping in schools is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. But instead of punishing kids for vaping, let's make it uncool. Let's start a campaign to show kids that vaping is for losers. And let's offer support programs and education to help kids quit. Because let's face it, heavy metal addiction is not a good look.

Youth vaping crisis is widespread in Ohio: Enquirer special report https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/2023/09/27/youth-vaping-crisis-is-widespread-in-ohio-enquirer-special-report/70923386007/ 

Ban smoking and vaping in school to protect young people https://www.who.int/news/item/26-09-2023-ban-smoking-and-vaping-in-school-to-protect-young-people 

What You Can Do to Protect Youth From the Harms of Vaping https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/features/back-to-school/index.html 

New state law makes punishment for vaping in school more serious https://sanantonioreport.org/vaping-school-new-texas-law/ 

Vaping a crisis for health, safety in our high schools https://www.wral.com/story/vaping-a-crisis-for-health-safety-in-our-high-schools/21058502/ 

Prince William Co. schools report surge in student vaping, marijuana | WJLA https://wjla.com/news/local/prince-william-county-public-schools-pwcps-students-vaping-marijuana-use-e-electronic-cigarettes-possession-pandemic-drugs-classrooms-prevention-efforts-substance-use-educational-programs-school-board-opioid-addiction-dmv-virginia-eduction 



THE DEFT DIVE


**Vaping in schools**

Vaping is the act of inhaling and exhaling the aerosol, often referred to as vapor, which is produced by an e-cigarette or similar device. E-cigarettes are battery-powered devices that heat a liquid to produce an aerosol. The liquid typically contains nicotine, flavorings, and other chemicals.

Vaping has become increasingly popular among teenagers in recent years. In 2021, 11.7% of high school students and 3.3% of middle school students reported using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days.

There are a number of reasons why teenagers are vaping. Some teenagers vape because they think it is cool or because their friends are doing it. Others vape because they believe it is less harmful than smoking cigarettes. However, vaping is not safe. E-cigarette aerosol contains harmful chemicals, including nicotine, which can be addictive and can damage the developing brain.

Vaping is also a problem in schools. Students often vape in bathrooms, hallways, and other hidden places. School officials are struggling to keep up with the problem, and many schools have implemented anti-vaping policies.

**The impact of vaping on students**

Vaping can have a number of negative consequences for students, including:

  • * Addiction: Nicotine is addictive, and vaping can lead to nicotine addiction. Nicotine addiction can be difficult to overcome, and it can interfere with academic performance, social relationships, and mental health.
  • * Lung damage: E-cigarette aerosol contains harmful chemicals that can damage the lungs. Vaping has been linked to a number of serious lung conditions, including EVALI (e-cigarette or vaping product use-associated lung injury).
  • * Other health problems: Vaping has also been linked to other health problems, such as heart disease, stroke, and cancer.
  • * Academic performance: Vaping can interfere with academic performance by impairing concentration and memory.
  • * Behavior problems: Vaping can also lead to behavior problems, such as irritability and aggression.

**What schools can do to prevent vaping**

School officials can take a number of steps to prevent vaping, including:

  • * Implementing anti-vaping policies: Schools should have policies that prohibit vaping on school grounds and during school-sponsored events.
  • * Educating students about the dangers of vaping: Schools should educate students about the health risks of vaping and the addictive nature of nicotine.
  • * Providing support for students who are struggling with nicotine addiction: Schools should provide support for students who are struggling with nicotine addiction, such as counseling and nicotine replacement therapy.

**What parents can do**

Parents can also play a role in preventing their children from vaping. Parents can talk to their children about the dangers of vaping and set clear expectations about vaping. Parents can also monitor their children's online activity and be aware of the signs of nicotine addiction.

If you are concerned that your child may be vaping, talk to them about it. You can also contact your child's school to learn more about their anti-vaping policies and resources.


FROM BING AI

Vaping in schools is a serious issue that affects the health and well-being of students, teachers, and staff. According to the CDC, vaping can expose users to harmful substances such as nicotine, heavy metals, volatile organic compounds, and ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs¹⁴. Vaping can also increase the risk of addiction, lung injury, heart disease, and cancer⁷⁸⁹ [^10^] ¹¹.

To prevent vaping in schools, it is important to educate students, parents, and school personnel about the dangers of vaping and the resources available to help them quit or avoid starting. Some of the vaping prevention programs that can be implemented in schools are:

  • - CATCH My Breath: This is a free, evidence-based program that targets students in grades 5 through 12 and teaches them about the health risks, social consequences, and marketing influences of vaping. The program also provides training for educators, parent resources, and youth empowerment opportunities¹²¹³.
  • - Empower Vape-Free Youth Campaign: This is a campaign from the FDA that provides science-based resources on vaping prevention, such as expert advice, online and community resources, and tips on how to recognize vaping products that teens try to hide¹⁵.
  • - SmokefreeTXT for Teens: This is a text-based program from the National Cancer Institute that helps young people quit tobacco use by sending them motivational messages, tips, and challenges. The program also connects them to a live quit coach and other support services¹⁶.
  • - N-O-T: Not on Tobacco: This is a cessation program from the American Lung Association that is designed to help youth ages 14 to 19 quit e-cigarettes. The program uses a positive, youth-centered approach that focuses on healthy lifestyles, coping skills, and peer support¹⁴.

Bing, 9/28/2023

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