The Knox County Board of Education recognizes that smoking represents a health and safety hazard which has serious consequences for the smoker and the nonsmoker. The Board also recognizes that all staff members should serve as positive role models for our students. In order to protect our students, staff, visitors, and guests of the schools from an environment that may be harmful to them, and in compliance with Public Chapter 410, known as the "Non-Smoker Protection Act," the Board of Education prohibits smoking by all staff, students, visitors, and guests on all school property, in all school buildings, and in all school vehicles (including schools, offices, warehouses, sport complexes, and other facilities, as well as vehicles owned by the Board). 

Smoking is not allowed in any form at any time inside any school building or anywhere on school property. For the purpose of this policy, "Smoking" will mean all uses of tobacco (including all "smokeless" and chewing tobacco products), cigars, cigarettes, pipes, imitation tobacco products, vaping devices, and electronic cigarettes. Employees are prohibited from possessing tobacco products on school property that are visible to others. 

This policy on smoking shall be communicated to all existing employees and to all prospective employees upon their application of employment.

"No Smoking" signs shall be clearly and conspicuously posted at every entrance to every public place where smoking is prohibited.

The smoking and use of tobacco policy for students is J-220 “Alcohol, Drug, and Tobacco Use.”

Legal References:  
1. T.C.A. § 39-17-1803. 
2. T.C.A. § 39-17-1805.

Cross Reference: 

• Knox County Board of Education Policy J-220 Alcohol, Drug and Tobacco Use. 

Approved as to Legal Form 
By Knox County Law Department 3/27/2023 
/Gary T. Dupler/Deputy Law Director