Assessment of School Staff Knowledge and Perceptions of Student E-cigarette Use and Resource Needs, and E-cigarettes Confiscated at 12 North Carolina High Schools — 2019

Background E-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among US youth and regularly on school grounds. We assessed staff’s awareness of students’ e-cigarette use, response by schools, resources needed to address examined e-cigarettes confiscated staff in North Carolina guide prevention identify resources. Methods In May 2019, from a random sample 25 451 public charter high schools were invited complete an online survey semistructured interview; 12 consented ≥ 1 component (survey, N = 514; interviews, 35). Staff knowledge perceptions use policies assessed, including efforts use. E-cigarette products nine students during 2018–2019 year collected. Limitations Only participated, these might not be representative all schools. Quantitative surveys collected at participating schools; however, rate was 62% included different positions both urban rural Finally, devices students. Results Among surveyed staff, 33% observed using grounds; 86% believed somewhat or largely contributes learning disruptions. Overall, 94% respondents knew their school’s policy prohibits student grounds, 57% confident has help quit. From 35 themes concern that schools’ tobacco-free do deter additional Of 336 devices, there types (65%) e-liquid bottles flavored. Conclusion Efforts warranted incorporate evidence-based curricula; educate parents, regarding health risks use; quit e-cigarettes.