School Board Enacts New Vaping Policies with Stricter Consequences for Students

The Tangipahoa Parish School System has taken a significant step in addressing the growing issue of vaping among students by revising its disciplinary policy. During the recent Tangi Schools Policy Meeting held on July 25, 2025, school officials approved a new framework for handling vaping incidents, which aims to enhance accountability and education for students.

Under the revised policy, the consequences for students caught vaping have been escalated. Previously, a first-time offense resulted in a one-day in-school suspension and a video viewing. The new guidelines stipulate that a first offense will still incur a one-day suspension, but subsequent offenses will lead to increased penalties: three days for a second offense and five days for a third. After the third incident, students will be recommended for the District Resource Center (DRC), a significant escalation in disciplinary action.

This decision comes in response to the alarming prevalence of vaping across school campuses, which has become a pressing concern for educators and parents alike. The administration expressed gratitude for the collaborative efforts of the principal advisory group, which contributed to the development of these recommendations. The revisions also include an educational component for both students and parents, ensuring that awareness and prevention efforts accompany the disciplinary measures.

In addition to the policy changes, the school system will continue to test any vaping devices found on campus, regardless of the student's age or grade level. This comprehensive approach aims to deter vaping and promote a healthier school environment.

The unanimous approval of these revisions marks a proactive stance by the Tangipahoa Parish School System in tackling the vaping epidemic, with hopes that these measures will lead to a decline in usage and foster a more supportive educational atmosphere. As the school year progresses, officials are committed to monitoring the effectiveness of these changes and will revisit the policy before the end of summer.