News and Events
Gilchrist County SWAT Member Presents Campus Tobacco Use Findings to State Coordinators
June 13, 2025
This quarter, Gilchrist County’s Students Working Against Tobacco (SWAT) program achieved a significant milestone in youth advocacy and campus health awareness. G. Stanley, a dedicated SWAT senior from Bell High School, was selected to present his campus monitoring findings to Florida’s state SWAT coordinators.
As part of his initiative, Stanley conducted a detailed survey of the Bell High School campus, evaluating the presence of tobacco prevention resources and identifying areas of concern regarding tobacco and vape use among students. His observations included checking for “No Tobacco Use” signage around the school and monitoring for any tobacco-related litter, such as vape packaging or cigarette remnants. He also investigated whether the school visibly offered any materials or programs to help students quit using tobacco products. Through his monitoring, Stanley identified areas where students are most likely to use tobacco and vaping products, particularly school bathrooms. Geek Bars—a disposable vaping product—were noted as the most commonly used among students on campus.
In his presentation, Stanley offered a practical recommendation: increasing staff checks of school bathrooms between class periods to deter in-school use of tobacco and vape products. This proactive approach aligns with the broader efforts of Gilchrist County SWAT, which has seen a remarkable surge in student participation, reflecting a growing commitment to tobacco cessation among emerging community leaders. The county chapter expanded from two to four clubs, amplifying its capacity to disseminate its message to a wider audience of students, educators, and visitors across school campuses. This unprecedented growth underscores the dedication of the youth to combatting tobacco use and signifies a promising shift toward a healthier, smoke-free future for Gilchrist County and beyond.
Gilchrist County SWAT is proud of G. Stanley’s leadership and commitment to making his school a healthier, tobacco-free environment. His efforts highlight the power of youth-led initiatives in promoting change and raising awareness across Florida schools. While we are sad to lose him as he graduates, his influence and dedication have set a strong foundation. Because of his impact, we are confident the club will continue to grow and inspire new student leaders in the coming year.
