GISD implements new policy for vape, e-cigs, THC-products

Graham ISD advised parents and guardians this week of a policy change passed in the 88th Texas Legislature regarding e-cigarettes, vaping, marijuana and THC-related products. Students found in possession, under the influence, selling, gifting or delivering the substances will be placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program (DAEP).

House Bill 114 was signed Tuesday, June 13 by Gov. Greg Abbott which was related to the possession, use or delivery of marijuana or e-cigarettes on or near public school property or at certain school events.

The act takes effect Friday, Sept. 1, but GISD Superintendent Sonny Cruse notified parents Monday, July 31 that the policy change will take effect immediately in the district.

“HB 114 has been enacted to respond to the increasing concerns around e-cigarettes, vaping, marijuana, and THC related products amongst our youth,” Cruse said. “The bill mandates that any student found in possession of, under the influence of, selling, gifting, or delivering these substances within a 300-feet radius of any school premises, will be immediately removed and placed in a Disciplinary Alternative Education Program.”

Cruse said that the district’s former policy depended on the severity of the offense.

“A lot of times kids got put in ISS (in-school suspension). That is mainly what was happening before, they got put in ISS,” Cruse said. “Now if someone was previously found with vape that had THC in it, then of course law (enforcement) was contacted and they were put in DAEP. So the big change is just regardless of what the vape is, now it is DAEP.”

DAEP is an alternative education program for students who violate the district’s Student Code of Conduct or committed other serious offenses such as conduct punishable by a felony, online impersonation, terroristic threat or retaliation against a school employee.

The superintendent said, based on previous experiences within the district, he foresees the new policy impacting many students.

“It is a really new severe thing that is going to cause a lot of challenges for schools,” Cruse said.

According to HB 114, if DAEP is at capacity at the time a campus behavior coordinator is deciding placement due to the new policy change, the student will be placed in in-school suspension. If a position in DAEP becomes available before the expiration of the period of placement, the student will be transferred to DAEP for the remainder of the period.

“We could move those kids to ISS for DAEP as far as the placement, but they would still be considered DAEP,” Cruse said.

The superintendent is asking parents and guardians to discuss the implications of the law with their children and emphasize the importance of adhering to school policies and laws.

“Your cooperation and support in ensuring that Graham ISD remains a safe, healthy, and thriving educational environment for our students is deeply appreciated. If you have any questions or concerns about this new policy, please contact your child’s campus principal,” Cruse said. “Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our students and shape a better future for them.”