Everywhere you go in my high school, the smell of weed is overwhelming. Students who are fourteen or even younger are frequently seen vaping or smoking joints in the bathroom. It's become an open secret that underage drug use is rampant, and unfortunately, this has significant negative implications on their developing brains.

At a time when teenagers should be focusing on their education and personal growth, they are falling prey to these harmful substances. Early exposure to drugs and vaping can have long-lasting effects on mental and physical health, disrupting their potential and altering their futures irrevocably.

The authorities have turned their attention towards banning phones in schools, but isn't it more crucial to address the pressing issue of underage drug and vape use? Phone confiscation doesn't tackle the root of the problem. The real issue is the accessibility and normalization of these substances among youth.

We need school administrations, local governments, and law enforcement agencies to strengthen the enforcement of existing laws and introduce new policies designed to prevent underage access to drugs and vaping products. Comprehensive educational programs should be implemented to inform students about the dangers of these substances. Additionally, stricter penalties should be put in place for those found supplying or promoting drug use among teenagers.

It's time to protect our younger generation from the dangers of substance abuse rather than divert attention to less impactful issues. By signing this petition, you're advocating for a safer and healthier environment for high school students everywhere.