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Superintendent reports enrollment dip and highlights alarming vaping contamination findings
Summary
Superintendent reported lower ADM (1,400.827) and K–12 enrollment counts; he also summarized VCU/VSBA findings about vaping products that, in tests, contained nicotine, cannabinoids, alcohol, mold, formaldehyde, arsenic and heavy metals and urged parent education.
The superintendent reported September 30 enrollment and shared public‑health information from recent trainings on vaping.
Staff reported that the September 30 average daily membership (ADM) was 1,400.827, with K–12 enrollment of 14,097 and Pre‑K–12 enrollment of 1,562. The superintendent said the lower ADM is being monitored for budget implications.
Separately, the superintendent summarized findings from sessions with Virginia Commonwealth University researchers and the Virginia School Boards Association on vaping. He reported that blind‑purchased vaping products tested by researchers contained a range of unexpected and hazardous substances, including nicotine, cannabinoids, alcohol, yeast and mold, formaldehyde, arsenic, heavy metals such as nickel, chromium and lead, and other solvents (he cited acetone and chemicals used in brake cleaners). He stressed the need to inform parents about the risks and noted that few products have FDA authorization.
Board members responded with concern and asked that staff pursue parent information sessions and consider inviting outside experts to speak to students. No board action was taken; staff said they will explore outreach options.
