HAMPTON, Va. — Four students from Hampton’s Bethel High School were taken to the hospital after sharing a drug-infused vape pen at school on Tuesday, according to a letter sent home to families.
Bethel’s executive principal, Dr. Tanya Howard, wrote in the letter that several students shared a drug-infused vape pen at school, according to school division spokeswoman Kellie Goral. Some of the students had adverse reactions that required medical attention. Emergency medical services were called, and four students were transported to the hospital for treatment.
“Our administration is actively addressing the situation and is working closely with our school resource officer and the Hampton Police Division,” Howard wrote in the letter. “This incident remains under investigation.”
The school division’s 2024-2025 Rights and Responsibilities Handbook prohibits the use and possession of all tobacco products, including vapes, by students. The policy states that “tobacco products” includes all electronic smoking devices. A separate part of the handbook also prohibits the possession, use, distribution, and being under the influence of narcotics, hallucinogens, and other controlled drugs, although it’s not clear what type of drug was in the vape pen the students used.
Howard wrote that the students have been identified and would be disciplined.
She also encouraged parents and guardians to have a conversation with their children about the risks of drug use of consequences of bringing prohibited items to school.
“Furthermore, we believe it's crucial to stress to your child the importance of refraining from accepting or consuming items whose contents they are unfamiliar with, to include vapes, pens, and items that look like food or candy.”
“Safety is always our top priority at Bethel,” Howard continued. “We thank you for your continued support as we work together to provide a safe learning environment for all students and staff.”