At Clarkston High School in Washington State, Principal Doug LaMunyan is confronting the complexities brought on by the legalization of cannabis. As students arrived for classes on a typical Monday morning, LaMunyan engaged with them, focusing on fostering open communication. His approach is crucial in a climate where an estimated 40 out of 600 students might be under the influence of cannabis or using it during the school day.
Since cannabis was legalized in Washington in 2012, the challenge of discouraging its use among youth has intensified. LaMunyan noted that the variety of cannabis products, particularly those with high levels of THC, complicates detection and intervention. “I could say with 100% certainty that since marijuana has been legalized, the availability to youth has increased exponentially,” he stated.
While the owner of a local cannabis store argues that state regulations prevent sales to those under 21, LaMunyan’s experiences tell a different story. He pointed out that the rise of edibles and oils has made it harder to identify students who may be using cannabis. “You can’t tell unless you see their eyes or they have behaviors,” he explained. The familiar smell of cannabis is no longer a reliable indicator, as students can easily attribute it to their parents, who can legally consume cannabis at home.
During the school day, LaMunyan’s routine involves addressing various issues, including complaints about cannabis odors in bathrooms. On one occasion, he found no students present when he investigated a reported smell, and no further action was taken. However, the mere presence of cannabis raises concerns about its impact on students. A 2020 report by the Washington State Prevention Research Subcommittee indicated that even minimal cannabis use can lead to decreased cognitive abilities and increased anxiety among teenagers.
Cannabis incidents at the school occur infrequently, with about a dozen confiscations recorded this academic year. Colby Martin, the school resource officer from the Clarkston Police Department, attributed this to students’ clever concealment tactics. They often hide cannabis in backpacks, bathrooms, or even within personal items. The challenge of distinguishing between tobacco and cannabis vapes further complicates enforcement efforts.
For many students, the allure of cannabis stems from its perceived ability to provide an escape from stressors such as academic pressures or personal issues. “It works and they don’t think about the long-term,” one student noted. LaMunyan echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that many teenagers do not fully grasp the immediate effects of cannabis and its potential long-term consequences on their health and learning.
The issue extends beyond high school. Martin reported similar incidents at both Clarkston Middle School and elementary schools, illustrating the widespread nature of the challenge. In one instance, a student mistakenly consumed a cannabis edible, leading to a concerning episode that required intervention.
Despite the relatively low frequency of cannabis incidents, LaMunyan recognizes that its impact can ripple through the student body. He recalled a past incident at Pomeroy High School, where a student consumed too many edibles, resulting in a lockdown situation. While extreme cases are rare, the everyday use of cannabis in schools presents significant challenges.
Cannabis can lead to a more passive student body, which may affect participation in classroom activities. “As long as students aren’t being disruptive, teachers don’t correct them,” LaMunyan remarked. This raises concerns about the overall learning environment and the potential for a cascading effect where students influence one another negatively.
In response to the issue, the school provides resources for students and encourages communication between parents and educators. LaMunyan emphasized the importance of addressing cannabis use proactively. “If you have enough students say, ‘Well, if he’s not going to do it, I’m not going to do it,’ now a majority of your class isn’t doing the work,” he explained.
As LaMunyan continues to navigate these challenges, he remains committed to maintaining a supportive environment. His engagement with students serves as a critical component of a strategy aimed at fostering healthier choices and ensuring that educational outcomes remain the primary focus. “My teachers, staff, and I work together for a common goal,” he affirmed.
The complexities associated with cannabis use in schools highlight the ongoing need for effective communication and targeted interventions as society adapts to the realities of legalized cannabis.
