National Take Down Tobacco Day is recognized every year on April 1, and this year San Clemente High School and Capistrano Valley High School in Orange County joined the movement for the first time, each hosting their own campus event on different days. Students rallied around the theme “Vapes + Zyn: New products, same old tricks,” calling out Big Tobacco’s ongoing efforts to target youth.
Events were led by the Strength In Numbers student club and supported by CUSD, TUPE, Providence Mission Hospital, the Wellness & Prevention Center, Partners4Wellness, and the Orange County Health Care Agency, Tobacco Use Prevention Program (TUPP) as part of a broader initiative to reduce youth vaping through peer‑led education. This model ensured prevention messages were delivered by students themselves—credible, relatable, and grounded in real teen experiences.
A highlight across both campuses was the Student Art Contest, where teens created bold pieces exposing industry manipulation and the harms of nicotine. First place was awarded to Emily Beebe from Capistrano Valley High School, and second place went to Revan Reynard from San Clemente High School. Winning artwork was displayed prominently on campus, extending the impact well beyond each school’s event day.
Together, these efforts showcased strong student leadership, meaningful community partnership, and a shared commitment to creating healthier school environments.
