Over two impactful days at Archie R. Cole Middle School in East Greenwich, Rhode Island, students experienced a powerful series of vaping prevention presentations for schools.  These presentations were delivered by one of the leading national speakers on vaping, Robert Hackenson Jr.  His presentation are designed to educate, engage, and inspire better decision-making. These evidence-based vaping prevention presentations combined education and entertainment.  This kept students fully engaged while learning the truth about vaping.

Each presentation was age-appropriate and interactive.  Robert used magic and illusions to hold students’ attention while delivering serious, science-backed messages about the dangers of vaping nicotine and THC. The presentation focused on a few areas including:

• Uncovering the Truth Behind the Vaping Industry – Students learned who is really behind the vaping industry. They also learned how marketing strategies are intentionally designed to appeal to teens. From sleek designs and enticing flavors to targeted social media campaigns.  The message was clear — this industry profits by getting young people hooked early.
• Understanding the Health Effects of Vaping – Robert explored the short- and long-term health effects of vaping.  He emphasizing how nicotine and THC can impact brain development, lung health, and overall well-being. Through real-world examples, visuals, and illusions, students saw how easily addiction can form.
• Recognizing Triggers and Building Resilience – A major focus of these vaping prevention assemblies in Rhode Island schools was identifying the common triggers that lead teens to vape.  This included things like stress, social pressure, curiosity, flavoring and marketing tactics. Students need to reflect on their own challenges and find healthy strategies to manage emotions, stress, and perspectives so they make confident, healthy choices.

For Parents: Continue the Conversation at Home

It’s essential that parents understand what their children are learning.  We’ve included a recorded version of the parent presentation below. You will have access to this video for 60 days (access the video using the code provided by the school).  This allows parents to see the same material their children experienced, along with extra resources and links to help guide meaningful conversations at home about vaping and substance awareness.