Douglas High to offer four-session nicotine-intervention program as alternative to some suspensions

District administrators outlined a new in-school intervention to address nicotine and vaping dependence for students who violate tobacco- and vape-related policies.

The program — described as the in-depth intervention model from the American Lung Association and delivered locally by Pinal Hispanic Council counselors with Cochise County Health Department support — consists of four sessions facilitated by a counselor. Sessions are online-based but instructor-led and are scheduled on early-release Wednesdays from 2:30 to 4:00 p.m. The presenter told the board the first session begins tomorrow and initial intake appointments are scheduled on Fridays prior to the Wednesday sessions.

Under the district's adjusted discipline matrix, first-time offenders for tobacco/vape violations may be assigned to this intervention in lieu of suspension; repeat offenders could receive both the program and suspension. The presenter said THC-positive incidents and other serious drug infractions remain subject to the district's long-term suspension process and are reported to law enforcement. "If it's THC, that's an automatic 10-day suspension pending a long-term hearing," the presenter said.

Board members asked who is targeted and whether the program would be available to students outside those caught on campus; administrators said the program primarily addresses students caught at school but that broader community access could be explored through the county.

Why it matters: the program is intended to reduce suspensions by providing education and support for nicotine dependence, potentially keeping students in class and addressing health risks associated with vaping. Because some incidents (THC) trigger mandatory long-term actions and law-enforcement involvement, the program does not replace statutory or disciplinary requirements for serious drug incidents.

Next steps: administration will begin sessions, monitor outcomes, and report back to the board; parents and students schedule an intake appointment with the partnering agency prior to participation.