Rivercrest launches anti-vaping initiative

WILSON - In response to the growing trend of student vaping across the state, Rivercrest High School has introduced a new initiative to educate students in grades 6-12 and provide support for those who might be struggling with addiction.

The program, which was developed by the district in partnership with the Crowleys Ridge Development Council (CRDC), is aimed to raise awarenesss about the dangers of vaping, offering resources for students who want to quit and assisting parents who have concerns about their child’s vaping habits.

Faculty members at RHS including Dean of Students Coach Ronnie Dye and High School Principal William Burfield had noted signs of and behaviors associated with addiction among students.

Staff members noted a troubling rise in the number of students caught using e-cigarettes on campus. “It had become clear that we needed to do something more than just disciplining students,” said Principal Burfield. “We needed to address the root causes and help them break free from the cycle of addiction.”

To better understand how to approach the issue, Coach Dye rallied a group of students who were concerned about their peers and eager to help find a solution to the problem. The students expressed a desire to educate their fellow classmates about the risks of vaping and the long-term effects it could have on their health. After discussing the issue, the district reached out to the CRDC to arrange a speaker to address the issue head on.

What began as a short informational session quickly turned into something far more comprehensive. Cyndy Henderson, Instruction Facilitator, worked with the CRDC Youth Engagement Coordinator ShainaRae Doherty, to develop an ongoing plan to not only educate students but also provide support for those already struggling with addiction.

“Vaping isn’t just a trend, it’s becoming a serious addiction for many of our students,” Henderson said. “We want to make sure students who are already using vaping products have the support they need to quit. But prevention is just as important, so we’re also focusing on educating younger students before they start.”

Doherty will work closely with Health Teachers across grades 7-12, delivering a vaping prevention curriculum that educates students about the dangers of nicotine use and the long-term consequences of addiction. In addition to prevention education, Doherty will lead small therapy groups for students who have already been caught vaping or are suspected of using e-cigarettes.

“It’s critical that we provide these students with the tools and support they need to quit,” Doherty said. “We’re offering real strategies, not just lectures, to help them move forward.”

District Assistant Superintendent, Shantele Raper, emphasized the importance of supporting both students and parents during this process. “We know parents are doing their best, but it’s hard to navigate these challenges alone,” Raper said. “We want to make sure that if parents suspect their child is vaping, they know there are resources available to help. We’re here to offer guidance and support every step of the way.”

According to recent statistics, Arkansas has seen a troubling rise in student vaping. In 2024:

20% of high school students reported using e-cigarettes

12% of middle school students in Arkansas have tried vaping

Nationally, 1 in 4 high school students are current e-cigarette users

The initiative at RHS comes at a crucial times as schools across the state are working to reverse the trend and protect students from the dangers of vaping.

The Rivercrest School District hopes to create lasting change with this new collaborative effort, offering a support system for students, parents and the community to tackle this growing issue.

RHS intends to continue this initiative throughout the semester and parents are encouraged to reach out to the district for more information on resources and support available to them.

For more information, please contact the Rivercrest School District or visit the CRDC website at https://www.cdc.gove/tobacco/e-cigarettes/ youth.html for resources on vaping prevention and addiction support.