School Leaders and Students Weigh In on Youth Vaping: Insights from WISH Center Focus Groups
Between November and December 2024, the WISH Center conducted three focus groups to gather insights on youth vaping from both school leaders and students. The goal was to understand perspectives on vaping-related challenges and identify actionable solutions.
Two focus groups included 29 school leaders participating in the School SBIRT project, with most representing pupil services professions. The third group featured 10 high school peer educators (PATCH) from Western Wisconsin, ages 15-17. Their shared insights highlight common concerns and key differences in perspectives.
Both groups recognize the urgency of addressing youth vaping and the need for more effective, supportive solutions. Moving forward, collaboration between schools, students, and community stakeholders will be essential to developing comprehensive approaches that prioritize prevention, intervention, and long-term well-being.
The WISH Center will continue to support schools on this journey by providing evidence-based interventions and implementation support. This report was funded by the Wisconsin Commercial Tobacco Prevention and Treatment Program (CTPTP), Wisconsin Department of Health Services.
Link to the full report: 2024 Focus Groups on Vaping in Schools
