As the new school year begins, districts are trying to figure out how to handle an increasing problem among students, the use of vaping.

More schools are making sure their handbooks prohibit vaping, and some are even testing for it.

The Mahoning County Health Commissioner says nicotine harms growing bodies and brain development. That's why Valley schools are banning it.

"It's definitely a tremendously growing problem. The U.S. Attorney General has declared it an epidemic among young people and teens," said Patricia Sweeney, Mahoning County Health Commissioner.

"No vaping in schools or on school property. If that's what is taking place or even possession of those items, it's up to the building principal to implement discipline procedure," said Warren Schools Superintendent, Steve Chiaro.

Canfield Schools are now adding nicotine to their drug testing of athletes, band members, and student drivers.  
And if you're caught doing it in school, they'll give you some homework to learn about its dangers.

"If they are caught vaping on school grounds or on school property, there is a four-hour course that they have to take online, a tutorial, along with testing with that and, obviously, parents are notified," said superintendent, Alex Geordan.

A problem schools might face enforcing the new vaping rules is the fact that the devices are small and easy to conceal, and they don't smell like cigarettes.

Medical experts say teens don't think of vaping as harmful as smoking, even though you're still breathing in chemicals. One vaping pod can contain as much nicotine as a pack of cigarettes.