RSU 38 approves $10,000 school-based health partnership to expand teen tobacco and vaping cessation services

The RSU 38 School Board unanimously authorized a district application for a $10,000 opportunity grant to partner with the Center for Tobacco Independence (Main Health Center) to expand school-based tobacco and vaping cessation services.

Health center director Sarah Moral told the board the program would use the teen-focused My Life, My Quit curriculum combined with one-on-one support delivered in the school. "This is a $10,000 opportunity grant opportunity to partner with the Center for Tobacco Independence," Sarah said, adding that Main Health Center funds and an on-site community health worker already support related services at the school-based health center.

Why it matters: Board members noted vaping is a known problem among teens and framed the grant as a way to add a layer of care that pairs app-based supports with in-school, live counseling. Sarah said the grant funds are flexible and could be used for staff time, training, materials or small incentives for students who participate.

Process and vote: A board member moved the motion to approve the Moran Cook school-based health center partnership application; the motion was seconded and carried unanimously.

Implementation: The community health worker funded by Main General already provides part-time in-school support; the grant would primarily underwrite additional staff time and any out-of-pocket costs for students requiring extra care. The board approved submission; no additional funding commitments beyond the application were made at the meeting.