Owensboro student speaks out on vaping and substance abuse in schools

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — Vaping and substance use in schools became a hot topic during a recent meeting at the Kentucky Department of Education's Commissioner's Student Advisory Council. One of the members includes a student from Owensboro High School.

Program consultants discussed data and information gathered from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey with the students.

According to the YRBS, the percentage of high school students who have used an electronic vapor product at least once was reported at its highest in 2019 at 53%. A decrease to 41% was recorded in 2023.

The data collected was used to establish a connection between mental health, suicide and substance use.

The upperclassmen in the council shared their thoughts on how younger students have been exposed to these substances.

Khoa Ta, a student from Owensboro High School, says resources at their school has helped students become more informed.

"My district has specific vape boxes where you can dispose of vapes without getting in trouble or just being able to remain anonymous at the same time which I think is an amazing place to start," says Ta. "They actually have (anti-vaping) pamphlets right next to it."

Other topics discussed were how students relied on vapor products as a "quick fix" and highlighted the importance of presenting an alternative coping mechanisms for students.

The 2023 YRBS was completed by 1,925 students in 48 public high schools and by 1,481 students in 37 public middle schools in Kentucky.

The entire council meeting is available to view here .