Breathing Easier: Lincoln East High School


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Breathing Easier: Lincoln East High School
Breathing Easier: Lincoln East High School

In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, a pioneering initiative at Lincoln East High School is clearing the air, both literally and figuratively. This story isn’t just about the mechanics of installing vape detectors in bathrooms; it’s a narrative of resilience, adaptation, and the relentless pursuit of a healthier environment for our young learners. What started as a concerning detection of nearly 100 vaping incidents in just the first week has now transformed into a beacon of hope, with incidents plummeting to fewer than 10 a week.

From Alarm to Action

The swift rise in vaping among students had set off alarm bells across Lincoln Public Schools, with over 700 vaping infractions recorded last year, a staggering increase from just 22 in the 2016-17 school year. Elementary students, shockingly, were not spared from this epidemic. The decision to install vape detection devices in all 24 restrooms and locker rooms at Lincoln East High School was bold but necessary. Initially, the devices were triggered nearly 100 times in the first week alone, painting a grim picture of the extent of vaping among students.

A Breath of Fresh Air

However, the narrative quickly shifted. The alerts have since decreased to fewer than 10 a week, a testament to the program’s effectiveness and a hopeful sign of a broader change in student behavior. This success story is not just about the decrease in detected vaping incidents but about the school’s proactive approach to tackling a problem head-on. The initiative, funded by a $200,000 bid approved by the Lincoln Board of Education and partly financed by a settlement from a class-action lawsuit against Juul, is now set to extend to other high schools and middle schools in the district.

Challenges Remain

Despite the significant drop in vaping incidents, the battle is far from over. The underlying issue of nicotine addiction among students persists, highlighting the need for comprehensive education and resources to address the root causes of vaping. The decrease in detected incidents is a step in the right direction, but it also underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and support for students grappling with addiction.

The story of Lincoln East High School’s fight against student vaping is a powerful reminder of the impact of collective action and the importance of adapting to challenges with innovative solutions. As this initiative continues to evolve, it serves as a model for schools nationwide grappling with similar challenges, proving that change is possible with determination and the right tools.


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