With an increase in the use of e-cigarettes by teens, a reminder from the South East Cornerstone Public School Division - use of e-cigarettes is treated the same as a regular cigarette.

“If they’re found to be using them at school, or on the bus, or during school activities, we have a safe school environment procedure that outlines students may be suspended for possession of or distributing, or selling, or supplying drugs or alcohol, cigarettes, or e-cigarettes,” explained Keith Keating, the Deputy Director of Education for the SECPSD.

He added the trend isn’t a new one seen in just the past few years.

“We haven’t seen a huge uptick in vaping and e-cigarettes in the last year, but it has been something that’s increasing over the last number of years as it becomes more popular among teens.”

The use of e-cigarettes and regular cigarettes on school property is prohibited under provincial legislation.