FCPS expands bullying lessons, vaping interventions and monitoring after underage sales sweep

Joe Strong, director of student support services (introduced in the meeting), briefed the committee on two prevention initiatives.

For middle schools, the division will deliver two to three social-emotional learning lessons weekly at the start of the year, with sixth grade focused on bullying identification, de-escalation and reporting; the E-Impacts survey tool will be used twice yearly to identify needs and pull students into targeted supports. For high schools, vaping prevention includes health-curriculum components (grades 2–10), DARE and fentanyl-awareness sessions for select grades, quarterly communications to families and digital lesson suites (Build My Quit, Together Vape Free, Vaping: Know the Truth). The division also described partnerships with Atlas Counseling and Valley Health Outpatient Behavioral Health Services for substance-use supports.

Strong reported findings from the Frederick County Sheriff's underage-nicotine task force: in supervised attempts this summer, 23 of 77 businesses sold to an underage buyer on the first attempt. Board members suggested collaborating with the Board of Supervisors on business licensing to limit shop density; staff noted some noncompliant sellers were convenience stores with tobacco licenses, not standalone vape shops.

Operational measures include restroom monitoring, anonymous reporting via the district "Speak Up for Safety" system monitored through Gaggle, random quarterly weapons-detector sensitivity checks at selected entrances, and consideration of vape detectors (Halo covers ~144 sq ft; Fricada requires six-to-eight-foot sensitivity and may be impractical for high ceilings). Staff said estimated wiring and installation costs are preliminary and would require facilities follow-up.