Seven Fountain Hills Middle School students were recently disciplined for actions related to E-cigarettes on campus, including using and even selling the devices.

According to FHMS Principal Gomez, reports came in from several students concerning their peers and the use of E-cigarettes on campus.

“This was reported to our dean of students, who investigated and found that there were students with E-cigarettes on campus, students who did not bring them but did use them on campus, and one who was selling them,” Gomez explained.

While specific punishments could not be discussed, Gomez explained that E-cigarettes are classified the same as standard cigarettes or alcohol on campus, and the consequences fit accordingly.

“It’s just as serious as bringing cigarettes on campus,” Gomez continued.

“But it’s definitely something that’s been a new topic for school administration in the last year to 18 months.”

Gomez said that one of the problems with E-cigarettes on campus is that it’s harder to tell if they are being used, as the flavors are often made to smell like watermelon, bubblegum and the like.

After using an E-cigarette, the smells traditionally associated with smoking are not present since they are not lit and aren’t always flavored to taste/smell like tobacco.

“It can be easier to get away with,” Gomez added.

“However, students know that it’s against the rules and they know that they aren’t allowed to have them at school. It’s still considered a cigarette, even if it’s electronic or water vapor, and you can still get in trouble for it.”

Gomez said that this was the biggest such incident on campus and, even though they broke the rules, she appreciates the honesty of the students involved when they were confronted about having, using or selling the devices.

In regards to how the students obtained the items, Gomez said that it did not appear the students were buying E-cigarettes themselves, but taking them from adults in their lives.

And while Gomez said this incident was unfortunate, she said the positive may be that it sends a clear message about the fact that E-cigarettes are not welcome on campus.

“E-cigarettes of any kind, even those without nicotine in them, are not allowed,” Gomez said.

“This not only sends a message, but I think it’s an eye-opener for other students who may have thought about trying E-cigarettes.

“They now know how serious it is if you do something like this on a school campus. I think the students have learned their lesson and I doubt it will happen again.”