Supporting students in a tobacco-free environment

As proud members of the Franklin County Tobacco-Free Partnership, we have been committed to advocating for a healthier environment for our children. A significant achievement that directly supports this mission was made on June 29, 2023, when the Franklin County School Board unanimously adopted comprehensive tobacco-free policies for our schools. This landmark decision represents a powerful step toward protecting our students from the harmful effects of tobacco and nicotine products.

These changes are a response to national and state trends, media influences, and the dedicated efforts of organizations like ours. According to the annual Florida Youth Tobacco Survey, the increase in youth e-cigarette use has slowed; however 12.5% of high schoolers are still using e-cigarettes. The U.S. Surgeon General and U.S. Food and Drug Administration have both been vocal in expressing concern about youth e-cigarette use, declaring it a national epidemic. Despite legislative changes and FDA actions, popular brands of new disposable e-cigarettes such as Puff Bar and HQD (Cuvie) continue to entice children with flavors like “Blue Razz” and bubblegum.

The new policies have reflected a firm commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of our youth. These policies both prohibit tobacco use within our schools and include important provisions such as:

• Banning the acceptance of gifts from the tobacco industry
• Requiring clear communication and distribution of these policies to students, staff, and parents
• Providing access to tobacco cessation resources
• Implementing robust enforcement protocols for students, staff, and visitors

This bold action was in direct response to the growing national and state trends related to tobacco use, the influence of the media, and the ongoing efforts of organizations like ours. It is a reflection of our shared vision for a future where all young people can thrive in an environment that actively promotes their health.

Importantly, these new policies emphasize support over punishment. Research has shown punitive measures, such as suspension or expulsion, often have unintended negative consequences. Instead, our focus is on offering students the tools they need to make healthier choices. Educational programs and tobacco cessation resources play a central role in helping students understand the risks of tobacco use and providing them with the support they need to quit if they are using tobacco products.

This shift toward a more supportive approach is a critical piece of the puzzle, and it is where you, our community, can make a real difference. We encourage you to continue advocating for educational resources, cessation programs, and policies that prioritize the well-being of our students. Together, we can create an environment where every student has the opportunity to grow up tobacco-free and lead a healthy life.

We thank you for your continued support and commitment to the health of our children and our community. Together, we can ensure that Franklin and Gulf counties remain a place where our youth can thrive, free from the harmful effects of tobacco. We appreciate your ongoing support in creating a healthier future for our children.

ABC School teacher Elizabeth Tipton is the advisor to the SWAT (Students Working Against Tobacco) Club. She can be reached at etipton@abceagles.org.