A substitute teacher at Pell City High School was removed from the campus on Friday after allegedly offering a vape device to several students. The Pell City School System has turned the case over to law enforcement for a full investigation, according to officials.
Superintendent Justin Burns confirmed the incident and stated that the parents of the students involved have been notified. The school district is emphasizing its commitment to student safety while the investigation proceeds.
Key Takeaways
- A substitute teacher at Pell City High School was dismissed from campus Friday.
- The dismissal followed allegations that the teacher offered a vape device to students.
- The Pell City School System has referred the matter to law enforcement.
- Superintendent Justin Burns affirmed the district's "zero tolerance" policy for such behavior.
School Officials Take Immediate Action
The incident, which occurred on Friday, November 1, 2025, prompted a swift response from the school administration. Upon learning of the allegations, officials immediately removed the substitute teacher from the high school premises. The identity of the teacher has not been released pending the outcome of the official investigation.
Pell City School System Superintendent Justin Burns issued a statement addressing the district's handling of the situation. He stressed the importance of maintaining a safe and trustworthy environment for all students.
“Pell City Schools holds the safety and well-being of our students as our highest priority. We have zero tolerance for behavior that compromises that trust, and we are taking every appropriate step to ensure this situation is handled properly.”
The district confirmed that it has been in direct communication with the families of the students who were reportedly offered the vaping device. This proactive communication is part of the school's protocol in sensitive situations involving student welfare.
Investigation Handed Over to Law Enforcement
The school system's role in the initial response has now transitioned, with the case being formally handed over to local law enforcement personnel. This move signifies that the allegations are being treated with significant seriousness and may involve potential legal consequences.
Law enforcement officials will now conduct their own investigation to determine the facts and decide if any criminal charges are warranted. Details of their investigation have not been made public at this time.
Vaping in Schools: A National Concern
The use of electronic cigarettes, or vapes, among teenagers remains a major public health issue across the United States. According to the 2023 National Youth Tobacco Survey, millions of middle and high school students reported current e-cigarette use. The presence of these devices in schools presents a significant challenge for educators and administrators who are tasked with enforcing tobacco-free campus policies and protecting student health.
Understanding the Risks
Health officials have consistently warned about the dangers of vaping for young people. The nicotine in most vape products is highly addictive and can have detrimental effects on the developing adolescent brain. These effects can include harming parts of the brain that control attention, learning, mood, and impulse control.
Furthermore, the aerosol that users inhale and exhale from vaping devices can contain harmful and potentially harmful substances, including:
- Nicotine
- Ultrafine particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs
- Flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to a serious lung disease
- Volatile organic compounds
- Heavy metals such as nickel, tin, and lead
The alleged actions of an adult offering such a device to students run directly counter to the extensive public health campaigns aimed at preventing youth vaping.
District Reinforces Commitment to Safety
In his statement, Superintendent Burns reiterated the district's unwavering stance on student safety. The "zero tolerance" policy mentioned is a cornerstone of the school system's code of conduct for all employees, including temporary staff like substitute teachers.
This policy ensures that any behavior deemed to compromise the safety or well-being of students is met with immediate and decisive action. By forcing the substitute to leave and involving law enforcement, the district demonstrated its commitment to upholding that standard.
The community is now awaiting further information as law enforcement officials proceed with their work. The Pell City School System has pledged to cooperate fully with the investigation and has assured parents that it will continue to prioritize a secure learning environment for every child.