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The health hazards of tobacco use have been well established. A comprehensive tobacco-free school policy reduces the high incidence of tobacco use in North Dakota, protects the health and safety of all students, employees and the general public, and sets a non-tobacco-use example by adults.
 
Tobacco use is the leading cause of preventable death and disability in North Dakota. To support and model a healthy lifestyle for our students, school boards can choose to support healthier lifestyles for our students by adopting a comprehensive tobacco-free school policy.
 

Required Items

  1. The policy includes a statement explaining the rationale for the policy and definitions of tobacco and tobacco use.
  2. Tobacco is specifically named in the policy, not implied by an Alcohol or Drug Policy.
  3. Students are prohibited from possessing and/or using tobacco products on school district property, in district vehicles, and at school-sponsored events (whether on or off district property).
  4. School district employees are prohibited from using tobacco products on school district property, in district vehicles, and at school-sponsored events (whether on or off district property).
  5. Visitors are prohibited from using tobacco products on school district property, in district vehicles, and at school-sponsored events (whether on or off district property).
  6. Advertising and promotion of tobacco products (including signs, clothing, jewelry and accessories) is prohibited.
  7. Acceptance of financial contributions and/or gifts (such as sponsorships, speakers, curriculum, book covers, etc.) from the tobacco industry is prohibited.
  8. A plan to communicate the tobacco policy to all students, employees and visitors is outlined.
  9. The policy includes a statement that the superintendent or designated person(s) shall develop regulations for enforcement and implementation.
  10. The policy provides services to individuals requesting assistance with quitting.

    Optional Items
     
  11. As a tobacco product, electronic cigarettes are now regulated by the FDA and are included in this policy.
  12. School district employees are expected to refrain from visibly displaying tobacco products on school district property, in district vehicles, and at school-sponsored events (whether on or off district property).
  13. Visitors are expected to refrain from visibly displaying tobacco products on school district property, in district vehicles, and at school-sponsored events (whether on or off district property).
  14. The policy is verbally communicated to students, staff, parents, and visitors, and reminders will be given at extra-curricular and other appropriate events.