The devices, equipped with advanced air quality sensors to detect vape aerosols, will be activated across Midway High School in phases beginning Dec. 2.
“The safety and well-being of our students come first,” Midway ISD Superintendent Dr. Chris Allen said. “Vape detectors are a critical addition to our safety efforts, and we believe they will be a strong deterrent, helping us curb vaping among our students.”
When triggered, the detectors send alerts through the district safety app to designated staff, allowing them to respond quickly. The gradual rollout allows administration to confirm their effectiveness and make any necessary adjustments.
Midway High School saw a 58% increase in referrals for vaping in the 2023-2024 school year, with middle school referrals increasing from 14 to 31.
“Our trial run of the HALO sensors demonstrated a 98% success rate in detecting and addressing vape incidents,” Garn said during the July regular meeting of the Board of Trustees. “This technology has already significantly helped our efforts in curbing vaping on campus and promoting a healthier school environment.”
The vape sensors have been installed across Midway High School and will eventually be located in all secondary restrooms and locker rooms, including at both middle school campuses.
Midway ISD encourages families to use this time as an opportunity to reflect on vaping’s impact, talk to their children, and, if applicable, consider quitting vaping themselves.
“We are providing students and families with resources to address vaping at home, including information on the health impacts of vaping, tips on how to talk to children, and access to quitting support,” Zellers said.
Resources
Start conversations with your kids about vaping—be real, be open, and be there for questions. Let them know they can always come to you or another trusted adult if they’re feeling pressured or just want to talk. Need help on how to start that conversation or want to learn more? Check out these resources:
- Parent & Caregiver Resources | SAMHSA
- Vaping prevention and quit resources: top tips for parents and educators
- Truth Initiative | Resources
- Resources | Youth Now
- Keeping Your Kids Tobacco Free | Cancer.org
- CDC Guide on Youth and E-cigarettes
