Dear School Community,

We would like to inform you of a very serious development regarding vaping in Pennsylvania. It was recently discovered that some vapes may be laced with Fentanyl, Xylazine/Tranq, or in some cases Heroin.  Although there is a vape brand named “Cake Vape,” traces of Fentanyl, and other drugs have been uncovered in multiple brands, and likely spiked after initial purchase.

In a recent Safe2Say concerning another district, a new type of vape - which the kids refer to as “Cake” - was suspected of containing Fentanyl. At this time the product referred to as "Cake" cannot be confirmed as present in our district, but we do know that Fentanyl and Xylazine are currently in the community. 

In this report from Fox43 News, Mifflin County School District issued a warning to parents after the confiscation of three vapes that tested positive for Fentanyl or Heroin in February of last year:

“In a letter sent to families and posted on the district's website, Superintendent Vance Varner said Mifflin County High School administration and school resource officers found ‘the vaping devices were altered with fentanyl or heroin being injected through the vaping liquid.’"

As we know, vaping continues to be popular among children and teens, so we ask that families take the initiative to talk to their children regarding the dangers of vaping and the possibility of exposure to these harmful, and sometimes deadly, drugs. If you should come in contact with a vape, please practice caution when handling these devices. Handling without gloves or smelling the vape to detect the presence of marijuana can be extremely dangerous if the vape contains Fentanyl or Xylazine/Tranq.

We encourage parents and students to visit the following links for resources to learn more about the dangers of vaping, how to talk to your children about vaping, and how to report dangerous activities in your school community:

• CDC - Electronic Cigarettes Resources

• CDC eCigarette Infographic

• American Lung Association - Helping Teens Quit

• Garnet Valley CTC Quick Tip #36 Vaping

• Garnet Valley CTC Website - Parent Resources & PAYS Data

• Garnet Valley Safe2Say

As always, we are here to support our families as we navigate risks and challenges such as these circumstances. If you have questions or concerns regarding your student or our school community, please contact your building administrators, counselors, or utilize our Safe2Say platform. Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Dr. Marc Bertrando, Superintendent