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Schools Install Vape Detectors, Sparking Debate Among Students
19 Aug
Summary
- New Kensington-Arnold School District installing vape detectors
- Detectors already in use at several other local school districts
- Some students criticize the move as a "worthless spend"
As of August 20th, 2025, the New Kensington-Arnold School District has announced that it will be installing vape detectors in its junior and senior high schools. This move comes as several other local school districts, including Burrell, Highlands, Plum, Riverview, and Franklin Regional, have already implemented similar measures.
The Highlands School District has stated that the implementation of these detectors is a "proactive measure" aimed at discouraging harmful behaviors and ensuring the focus remains on student well-being and academic success. However, not everyone is on board with this decision.
Valley High School senior Abby Gorencice has expressed her disapproval, calling the detectors "stupid" and "unneeded." She believes the money could have been better spent on other improvements, such as installing air conditioning, which she says is sorely needed in the school.
Several teachers and counselors at Valley High School, who chose to remain anonymous, have also voiced their concerns about the vape detectors, citing a variety of reasons why they are not welcome.
Despite the opposition, the New Kensington-Arnold School District superintendent has confirmed that the detectors will be installed this school year. The initial cost is estimated at around $12,800, with an annual maintenance fee of approximately $1,700.
