Central Illinois Athletic Conference Takes a Stand: Uniting Against the Vaping Epidemic

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In a concerted effort to tackle a growing issue that is plaguing educational institutions nationwide, the Apollo Conference, which includes high schools from Mattoon, Effingham, Charleston, Mt. Zion, Taylorville, and Mahomet-Seymour, has taken a firm stance against vaping. The league has voiced its concerns, stating that the use of vapes undermines the core values of health, fitness, and sportsmanship they strive to instill in their athletes.

Effingham High School Principal Kurt Roberts has observed this problem for some time, noting a significant increase in the past five years. Alarmingly, even student-athletes have become entangled in this issue, being caught with vaping devices on school grounds.

Roberts emphasized the importance of educating students about the health risks associated with vaping before it becomes too late to reverse the damage. “Nicotine exposure to a developing brain actually hinders that development,” he explained. “Studies have shown that nicotine and vaping can lead to depression and anxiety.” He highlighted the detrimental impact on students’ academic performance, pointing out that a 15-year-old addicted to nicotine might struggle to concentrate and engage fully in their education.

Roberts said he wants all students to know the health problems associated with vaping before it’s too late.

“Nicotine exposure to a developing brain actually hinders that development,” Roberts said. “There’s also studies that show that nicotine and vaping leads to depression and anxiety; well obviously all those things are impacting your school. If you’re 15-years-old and you’re addicted to nicotine and you’re thinking of ways to satisfy that addiction, it is hindering your ability to be in school and to focus.”

Roberts said his school is already taking measures like installing vape detectors and providing support to students who may already be addicted to nicotine. He also said the conference’s mission is going to need support from entire communities, including parents and nearby law enforcement.