Agenda Item
d. Vape Sensors for High Schools (Not to exceed $1,602,443.27) ~ Updated 8.10.2025
Summary: Presented by: Kishia K. Towns, Ph.D., Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services
Request: It is requested that the DeKalb Board of Education approve the contract with South Western Communications, Inc. (SWC) to purchase vape sensors for high schools for an amount not to exceed $1,602,443.27.
Why: Installing vape sensors in all high schools across DeKalb County School District aligns directly with Strategic Goal 4.1-to ensure a safe, orderly, and supportive learning environment. These sensors discreetly monitor air quality in high-risk areas like restrooms and locker rooms, detect vaping (including nicotine and THC), and immediately alert staff-reducing staff patrols and allowing them to focus on teaching rather than surveillance. By deterring vaping, improving indoor air quality, and enabling timely, data-informed interventions, the initiative not only helps enforce school policies but also supports student health and fosters a respectful, disruption-free atmosphere consistent with DCSD’s culture and climate objectives.
• Over 22,000 vaping-related disciplinary incidents were reported in Georgia schools during the 2022-23 academic year, a sharp increase from roughly 18,700 the previous year-highlighting a statewide surge in vaping behavior among students (The Atlanta Journal-
Constitution Feb 19, 2024).
• In Georgia, over 10% of high schoolers reported vaping at least once in the past month, with 7% using e-cigarettes during the previous 30 days-and an additional 4% reporting dual use of e-cigarettes and traditional cigarettes (UGA Today August 29, 2022).
• Nationally, vaping remains prevalent, with 7.8% of high schoolers and 3.5% of middle schoolers reporting current e-cigarette use in 2024-totaling 1.63 million U.S. youth-and 26.3% of users using it daily (CDC September 5, 2024).
U.S. Middle & High School Students
2023
2024
-
• Current ecigarette use (%)
7.7%
5.9% (PMC)
• High school current use (%)
10.0%
7.8%
• Middle school current use (%)
4.6%
3.5%
• Users vaping daily (%)
-
26.3%
Georgia (Statewide)
• Disciplinary vaping incidents
22,209 (2022-23)
-
• Students disciplined for vaping (approx.)
-
17,500 (2023-24)
• Suspension days for vaping
-
12,268 days
Details: The purchase and installation of these discreet ceiling-mounted sensors will be installed in high-risk, private areas like restrooms and locker rooms to continuously monitor air quality for nicotine and THC aerosols. Once a threshold is reached, sensors will instantly alert designated staff, facilitating real-time intervention, preserving instructional time, and safeguarding student health without invasive surveillance. This collaborative, data-driven initiative aligns with Strategic Goal Area 4-Culture and Climate-by proactively creating a safer, more supportive environment while optimizing staff resources and ensuring student privacy.
Financial impact: The purchase and deployment of vape detection devices in high schools for an amount not to exceed $1,602,443.27 would include leveraging the use of JUUL funds under the general budget Charge Code: 582.0000.419950.08121.7200.9990.8010.115.0008.
Contact: Kishia K. Towns, Ph.D., Chief of Wrap Around Services, Division of Wrap Around Services, 678.676.1811,
Dr. Shannon Crosslin, Senior Counseling Coordinator, Student Advancement Department, Division of Wrap Around Services, 404.808.8942
Effective: Upon Board Approval
Status: Pending Approval by the Office of Legal Affairs
CHRONOLOGY OF THE AGENDA ITEM
Vape Sensors for Middle & High Schools
Scope
Contract Award – South Western Communications, Inc.(SWC)
This contract award to South Western Communications, Inc. (SWC) authorizes the purchase and
installation of vape detection sensors across designated middle and high schools within the
DeKalb County School District. The scope of work includes the procurement of hardware,
system configuration, installation, testing, and integration with existing school safety
infrastructure. SWC will also provide training for school personnel and ongoing technical
support to ensure optimal use and system functionality. This initiative aligns with the district’s
efforts to improve air quality, promote a safe and healthy school environment, and address the
rise in student vaping incidents.
Contract/Lease Terms
The contract term will be effective September 1, 2025, through September 1, 2026, and begin
upon Board Approval and a fully executed contract.
Background
In response to the rising incidence of student vaping and its associated health and disciplinary
concerns, the DeKalb County School District is initiating the installation of vape detection
devices in middle and high schools. This agenda item recommends the purchase of vape
detection systems from South Western Communications, Inc. (SWC), a vendor approved through
The Interlocal Purchasing System (TIPS) under Contract Number 230105. Utilizing the TIPS
cooperative purchasing contract ensures compliance with procurement regulations while
expediting the acquisition process. This purchase represents the district’s initial investment in
vape detection technology and reflects a proactive approach to fostering safer,healthier learning
environments for students.