When it comes to navigating the ever changing world of modern-day nicotine products, many people wonder what can actually be done to shift the norm away from these products and achieve a world where healthier behaviors are encouraged. It is a challenge that is brought up often when I, the campaign manager of 24/7 for tobacco-free schools, talk with Principals, school admin or parents. What is the right method to make sure kids know they aren’t bad for trying vaping or getting addicted, but that they have the education and resources to quit when they feel ready?

The methods 24/7 have always suggested, and the method now mandated by rule NMAC 6.12.4 from the NM Public Education Department, are progressive and supportive discipline. What is it though?

Progressive discipline involves procedures that start with less punitive consequences and become more punitive with each violation during a school year. Supportive measures involve education and referrals to quitting resources in addition to whatever disciplinary actions a school chooses. This approach acknowledges that often tobacco and nicotine use is not just a disciplinary issue, but an addiction issue too in many cases.

Thanks to the newest NMPED rule, all schools are required to have progressive and supportive discipline in place. Each district or charter can choose what those discipline measures look like as long as they have both the progressive and support aspects. However, we have examples of discipline and supportive measures for first, second and third offenses for students in our toolkit, as well as a whole bunch of resources to help with that like educational interviews, progressive discipline assignments for students, guides for how to get through the school day without nicotine and more. We encourage any school struggling with this to utilize our resources to inform what they do when students, visitors or staff are found in violation of their nicotine policies.

As many people point out, it’s hard to find a one-size fits all solution for this growing issue. That being said, progressive and supportive discipline is a way to make sure a student can feel comfortable, informed and safe quitting when they’re ready while also helping them manage their cravings at school so they can focus on what is important.

Any school struggling with enforcement, discipline and providing support is always welcome to reach out to us at info@247newmexico.com!

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