The Bryan Independent School District in Texas, USA, has adopted a new policy requiring students caught with vapes to receive a uniform in-school suspension of at least 10 days or transfer to an alternative education program, eliminating school discretion. This policy is based on a 2023 state law, and neighboring school districts plan to follow suit. The school district stated that while the punishment is harsh, it is in compliance with the law and urged parents to strengthen their education.
Key Points:
- Policy Change: The Bryan Independent School District in Texas, USA, has adopted a new policy requiring students caught with vapes to receive a uniform in-school suspension of at least 10 days or transfer to an alternative education program.
- Legal Basis: Implementing the requirements of the 2023 House Bill 6.
- Scope: Covers all vape devices containing nicotine and THC.
- School District Position: Acknowledges the severity of the punishment but emphasizes the legal imposition.
A Texas school district implemented new regulations
According to a new policy in compliance with state law, students in the Bryan Independent School District in Texas, USA, will face the same strict penalties for vapes, regardless of whether they contain nicotine or THC, according to a report by KBTX on August 7.
The 2025-2026 student code of conduct, approved at a recent board meeting, includes a new provision that eliminates administrative discretion in handling vape cases in previous years and mandates a minimum 10-day in-school suspension or placement in an alternative education program for first-time offenders.
Students caught carrying vapes will be suspended from school for 10 days
“School districts used to have discretion in how to discipline students found in possession of these devices, but that discretion has essentially been eliminated,” said Felicia Benford, vice president of the Board of Trustees of the Public School Districts (BISD) in Texas. “We have to follow the rules, guidelines, and laws that are in place and do our best to enforce them.”
Benford said the policy change is the result of the district’s efforts to comply with state regulations following the passage of House Bill 6 in 2023. This law mandates the same disciplinary action for all vape-related violations.
“We do encourage parents to discuss these devices with their children,” Benford said. “Many times, parents feel we’re punishing students too harshly, but we’re simply following the law.”
Bryan ISD leaders acknowledged the harsh consequences, but they believe they are necessary.
Vice Principal Brian Merrell reiterated that stance at the board meeting, stating that it is now the principal’s responsibility to ensure students are aware of the updated policy.
“The Legislature has taken a very strong stance on vapes, and we agree that we don’t want them on our campuses. They have no place,” Merrell said.
The new policy is now in effect as students return to classrooms for the 2025-2026 school year.
