In the most recent administrative attempt to quell teenage vaping, approximately 10-20 individuals were searched under speculation of possessing nicotine vaporizers on school grounds. It is speculated that at least five of these individuals were additionally suspended for the offense.

This came after a recent assembly of freshman and sophomores where students began to cheer and applaud when guest speakers Lynn Rheimer and Nick Thompson presented statistics concerning teen addiction statistics being incredibly high in Colorado.

Some, however, continued to partake in their activities, several going as far as to continue bringing their devices to school at risk of being caught.

The true nature and tension of this punishment, while not taken seriously by some, has set a new standard for the expectations of administration. Hailee Carpenter, a junior, believes this was “The Purge of high school suspensions,” and began to voice her disapproval against the administration and their tactics.

Senior Liam Doherty disagreed with the administrative actions. “I thought it was absurd how they chose to deal with the many kids in trouble with this form of suspension,” he said. “They should have just confiscated the vapes without further repercussions.”

Attempts to contact Administration about the event have not been reciprocated; however, it is expected that this “purge” is not the last effort to reduce vaping on school grounds, or in general.

Counselor Anthony Elliot, commented that he was “…not sure what occurred on January 17th,” as counselors are not often involved with disciplinary movements.

The CDC cites substance abuse as one of the greatest threats to the livelihood of modern teenagers. These devices, while lacking the harmful tar contained in cigarettes that cause cancer, contain chemicals that can cause major lasting effects, and more often than not, oral or lung cancer.

Further efforts from Administration are currently unknown; however, per usual trends, they are expected to tighten their grip in order to prevent the furthering of this epidemic. As Mead High School promotes excellence to the best of their ability, the rise of teen vaping and the reflection it has on the school’s reputation is jarring.