Tobacco use presents a health
hazard with serious consequences both for tobacco users and non-users
alike. Students shall not be allowed to smoke, chew or possess tobacco or
nicotine products on school property or during school hours, at
school-sponsored events, or under the supervision of District employees.
For the purposes of this policy,
"tobacco" is defined to include tobacco in any form and/or any electronic
nicotine delivery systems (ENDS) (e.g.vapes,
vaporizers, vape pens, hookah pens, electronic cigarettes [e-cigarettes or
e-cigs], e-pipes). This does not include FDA approved nicotine replacement
therapy products used for the purpose of cessation.
Tobacco advertising is prohibited
in all school-sponsored publications, in all school buildings, and at all
school-sponsored events. District acceptance of gifts or funds from the tobacco
industry is similarly prohibited.
Student violations of this policy
will lead to disciplinary action up to and including suspension. The
District may provide positive alternatives to suspension, such as in-school
suspension, educational programs, school and community service, and promotion
of cessation resources. Students may also be subject to removal from any or all
co-curricular activities and/or denial or forfeiture of school honors or
privileges (e.g., valedictorian, salutatorian, student body, class or club
office positions, field trips, senior trip, prom, etc.). A referral to law
enforcement shall be made. Parents shall be notified of all violations
involving their student and action taken by the school.
Staff responsible for teaching
tobacco use prevention will be encouraged when funds/resources allow to
collaborate with agencies and groups that conduct tobacco use prevention
education and to participate in ongoing professional development activities
that provide basic knowledge about the effects of tobacco use, effective
instructional techniques and program-specific activities. As part of the
District's tobacco use prevention activities, the Superintendent shall
recommend to the curriculum committee the use of evidence-based instructional
programs as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, or
approved by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration
(SAMHSA). Programs will be integrated within the health education program and
be age and developmentally appropriate.
( cf. 3515 – School Safety and Security )
( cf. 3513.3 - Tobacco-free Schools/Tobacco Use )
(cf. 5144.1 - Suspension and Expulsion)
(cf. 5142 - Safety)
Legal Reference:
ALASKA STATUTES
14.30.360 Curriculum (Health and Safety Education)
18.35.300 Places Where Smoking is Regulated
18.35.305 Places Where Smoking is Prohibited
18.35.310 Exemptions
18.35.320 Designation of Smoking Sections (prohibits designation of smoking sections for students)