Table of Contents
¡Feliz Navidad! A Holiday Message from Edu-Futuro
Edu-Futuro Students Visit the University of Virginia
VACOLAO Civic Engagement Workshop Brings Students and Leaders Together
VACOLAO Summit: Unity and Empowerment in Virginia
Parent Empowerment Services Celebrates Program Graduations
Edu-Futuro Raises Critical Operating Funds on Giving Tuesday
Registration Opens in January for GED Certification Program
AmeriCorps/VISTA Corner: Jocelyn Chu
Financial Tip: Protecting Yourself as a Tenant in Northern Virginia
Health & Wellness: Latest Vaping Research Reveals Growing Threat to U.S. Teens
¡Feliz Navidad! A Holiday Message from Edu-Futuro
More than 27 years ago, Edu-Futuro was founded on a simple but powerful belief: that immigrant and Latino families deserve dignity, opportunity, and the chance to build a better future through the power of education. Today, that belief feels more important than ever because families across our community are being forced to face uncertainty, fear, and never-ending economic pressure. Just like they did during the COVID crisis, however, our students and parents are responding with extraordinary resilience, courage, determination, and grace.
Even in challenging times, all of us at Edu-Futuro find hope in the remarkable accomplishments of the families we are privileged to serve. At every graduation, every program kickoff event, and every campus visit, we see clearly why the work of Edu-Futuro matters so much. The unbreakable spirit of our community was especially present at our Edu-Family Day, when over 500 students and parents joined us to learn how they can realize the dream of a college education. These moments are proof that progress is possible, even when the path forward feels unclear.
On behalf of the entire Edu-Futuro team, I extend my deepest gratitude to our beneficiaries, volunteers, and supporters. Without your trust, partnership, and continued support, our work would not be possible. We wish you Happy Holidays, and a New Year filled with success, good health, and peace of mind. No matter what awaits us, Edu-Futuro will continue to provide life-changing programs and opportunities. We will stand up for our community, and ensure that our students and families are supported, empowered, and never alone. Together, we move forward with strength and hope.
Jorge E. Figueredo, MPP
Executive Director
Edu-Futuro
Edu-Futuro Students Visit the University of Virginia
On Thursday, December 4, 2025, an enthusiastic group of 156 Edu-Futuro students representing ten high schools across Arlington and Fairfax counties traveled together to the University of Virginia (UVA) as part of our college-readiness workshop series, Emerging Leaders Program: ELP-I. The two-hour journey to Charlottesville marked Edu-Futuro’s largest and most successful campus trip to date, reflecting both the growth of the ELP program and the strong commitment of our students and their families. Accompanied by Edu-Futuro staff and AmeriCorps mentors, students spent the day exploring the beautiful UVA campus while learning about student resources, academic courses, and college life. For many participants, the experience marked a true milestone in their lives—a first opportunity to walk through a college campus and envision themselves as future professionals with a postsecondary degree.
Our ELP participants were greeted at UVA by representatives from the Office of Admissions, as well as by youth from Hoos First: First-Generation & Limited-Income Student Initiatives, a campus-wide network dedicated to supporting students who are the first in their families to attend college. Hoos First serves as a central hub connecting students to academic advising, financial literacy education, career development and wellness resources, graduate school preparation, and community-building opportunities. Hoos First staff shared personal experiences and discussed how these resources can help students navigate college life, while balancing academic rigor, involvement in student organizations, and personal well-being. Conversations also highlighted UVA’s 95% retention rate and reinforced the message that success in college is strengthened through access to supportive networks.
Throughout the day, Edu-Futuro students toured classrooms, libraries, and student life spaces, asking thoughtful questions about academic majors, special programs, and extracurricular opportunities. The ELP group shared lunch alongside college students in a campus dining hall before visiting the bookstore, where many students selected small souvenirs to remember their visit to UVA.
Later in the afternoon, students explored the university’s historic Central Grounds during the annual Lighting of the Lawn celebration, a campus-wide event featuring lights, student performances, food, and a drone show symbolizing unity and remembrance. Student-run booths lined the area, offering ELP participants a firsthand look at the energy and community spirit that shape campus life. Edu-Futuro Youth Programs Specialist, Patrick Edmonson, shared his hopes for what students would take away from the experience: “I hope students realize that college and college life are within reach. Students who want higher education can pursue that path. Seeing students who share similar backgrounds thriving on campus helps place that goal within reach. Higher education is possible, whether at UVA or at another institution.”
The following schools participated in Edu-Futuro’s campus visit to UVA:
- Arlington
○ Wakefield High School
○ Washington-Liberty High School
○ Yorktown High School - Fairfax
○ Oakton High School
○ George C. Marshall High School
○ Justice High School
○ Hayfield Secondary School
○ Westfield High School
○ Robinson Secondary School
○ Lake Braddock Secondary School
For more information on Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org. Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) is supported in part by grants from Impact100 DC and the Verizon Foundation.
VACOLAO Civic Engagement Workshop Brings Students and Leaders Together
“The job of a leader is to spread the message that when something affects one of us, it affects all of us.”
These words, shared by Takis P. Karantonis, Chair of the Arlington County Board, were delivered to a group of nearly 170 student participants in Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) who gathered for a virtual civic engagement session hosted by the Virginia Coalition of Latin American Organizations (VACOLAO) on Saturday, November 22, 2025. Designed specifically for Edu-Futuro’s ELP-I, ELP-II, and ELP-III participants, the three-hour session gave students unique insights into how laws are proposed, debated, and enacted across our local, state, and federal governments.
The session featured speakers representing each level of government: James R. Walkinshaw was recently elected to Virginia’s 11th Congressional District, which covers most of Fairfax County; Alfonso López has represented Arlington County since 2012, when he was elected State Delegate for District 3; and Takis P. Karantonis has been a member of the Arlington County Board since his election in 2020.
“One of the most enjoyable parts of my work at Edu-Futuro has always been watching the natural leadership of our students when they have the opportunity to engage with our local elected officials,” said Edu-Futuro Executive Director, Jorge E. Figueredo. “They are thoughtful and respectful, but I believe they also provide invaluable feedback to our representatives about the state of our community and the struggles of our families. This event was no exception, as our ELP youth asked excellent questions about such topics as immigration, school safety, and their mental health needs. I could not be prouder of our students.”
In addition to submitting questions to the three main guests, ELP students competed for $25 Amazon gift cards and other prizes. In total, 16 raffle prizes were awarded through the joint efforts of VACOLAO and Edu-Futuro.
“We are extremely grateful to our speakers for taking time out to engage in such a meaningful way with our students,” said Youth Programs Team Lead, Susana Carpio. “I spoke to several of our youth after the event, and they had clearly learned a great deal about how laws are passed at the three levels of government. More importantly, I believe that they have a much better sense of their ability to make their voices heard in our democracy.”
For more information about Edu-Futuro’s Emerging Leaders Program, please contact Susana Carpio, Youth Programs Team Lead, at youthprograms@edu-futuro.org.
VACOLAO Summit: Unity and Empowerment in Virginia
For the second time in November, Edu-Futuro partnered with the Virginia Coalition of Latin American Organizations (VACOLAO) to convene a major civic engagement event focused on the challenges facing English Learner students and low-income immigrant families. This time, the collaboration brought Edu-Futuro staff, social service providers, and community leaders together for the VACOLAO Summit, held on Friday, November 21, 2025, at Annandale United Methodist Church.
“A strong sense of unity and power” is how Edu-Futuro College and Career Access Specialist, Ed Aponte, described the atmosphere of the day. With approximately 120 participants in attendance, the event created space for meaningful dialogue, relationship-building, and honest conversations about immigration, education, and other policy priorities across Virginia.
The VACOLAO Summit featured legal experts, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates who shared timely information on policy shifts, community preparedness, and the importance of staying informed in a rapidly changing landscape. Discussions emphasized the need for coordinated action at the state level and carried a strong sense of hope for advancing supportive legislation in the year ahead.
Edu-Futuro played an active role in the program, leading a breakout session that highlighted the organization’s education, civic engagement, and workforce development services. Participants learned about Edu-Futuro’s youth leadership pathways, parent empowerment programs, and direct support services, with particular attention to navigating financial aid for college-bound immigrant and Latino students. The session also addressed common concerns related to Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and Virginia Alternative State Aid (VASA) access, generating thoughtful questions and discussion among attendees.
Deputy Director Manuel Piñeros emphasized the importance of Edu-Futuro’s presence at the summit. “Events like the VACOLAO Summit are critical because they bring trusted organizations into the same space to share information, coordinate strategies, and amplify community voices,” he said. “For Edu-Futuro, this work is about ensuring that immigrant families not only understand the systems that affect them, but also feel supported and empowered to engage with our local governments and nonprofit organizations.”
The summit also resonated deeply with Edu-Futuro staff in attendance. Xenia Rivas, Parent & Outreach Team Lead for Arlington County, reflected on a comment shared by a legal aid presenter: “Most of the time, we need to understand why a person is seeking a safe place that is not their home country.” Rivas added, “As an immigrant myself, I remember what it felt like to seek the safety and stability that my home country could not provide. That moment was a powerful reminder of why I choose to serve my community today.”
A consistent theme throughout the summit was the importance of service—particularly in the areas of immigration and education—and the need to expand awareness of available resources. Participants expressed a shared hope to grow the event’s visibility in future years so that more organizations and community members can benefit from the knowledge, connections, and collective momentum generated by the summit.
Together, this second November civic engagement event with VACOLAO reaffirmed Edu-Futuro’s commitment to building informed, connected, and empowered communities — and to ensuring that immigrant and Latino families are not only supported, but heard.
Parent Empowerment Services Celebrates Program Graduations
Throughout the month of November, Edu-Futuro’s Parent Empowerment Services (PES) celebrated a series of graduations across Northern Virginia, marking a strong start to Fiscal Year 2025–2026. This year, 18 PES programs are being implemented across three regions—Fairfax County, Arlington County, and the City of Alexandria—reaching families at multiple stages of their children’s educational journeys.
Edu-Futuro’s PES programs provide families with a comprehensive pathway to become informed, confident partners in their children’s education. Participate in My Education (Participa en mi Educación) equips parents of elementary-aged students with tools to understand the school system, support academic progress, and advocate effectively for their children. As students enter adolescence, Strengthening Families 10–14 supports both parents and youth in strengthening communication, building resilience, and fostering positive relationships during a critical developmental stage. For families with middle and high school students, Engaged Parents (Padres Comprometidos) builds on this foundation by helping parents navigate secondary education, support college and career readiness, and cultivate a home environment that encourages long-term goals. Together, these programs empower families with the skills and confidence to support their children from elementary school through high school and beyond. In November alone, eight PES graduations took place across participating schools with more than 91 individuals served.
Fairfax County
Participate in My Education (Participa en mi Educación)
• Crestwood Elementary School
Engaged Parents (Padres Comprometidos)
• Liberty Middle School
• Oakton High School
Strengthening Families 10–14
• Providence Elementary School
• Dranesville Elementary School
• Key Middle School
City of Alexandria
Participate in My Education (Participa en mi Educación)
• John Adams Elementary School
• William Ramsay Elementary School
While the graduations took place in November, additional ceremonies are planned for the months ahead. These milestones would not be possible without the dedication of school-based family liaisons who connected dozens of parents to PES programs, nor without the commitment of families who chose to invest time and effort in strengthening communication, learning new skills, and building brighter futures.
As PES facilitators reflect on this work, they see the impact firsthand. “I was pleased with every achievement made by the team,” said Yeimy Sánchez, Fairfax County Parent Support Specialist. “I want to highlight the graduations at Providence and Dogwood Elementary Schools, as they allowed us to impact a large number of families in each location. At Providence, it was clear from the beginning that engaging youth would be a challenge. However, with strategy, collaboration, and strong support from the school’s Family Liaison and principal, the team achieved excellent results. The outcomes with parents also met our expectations, generating a great sense of satisfaction with what we are accomplishing in the community. Being part of each program is a unique experience because every family represents a meaningful achievement. Through education, we are helping to transform lives.”
Among the graduates, several parents shared reflections on their experiences.
Beatriz and Valeria Sandoval Rivas, participants in Strengthening Families 10–14, shared: “We took the course at Providence Elementary School. I work in school maintenance and as an events manager. I learned about the program through the school’s parent liaison, who sent us information that really caught our attention. What I liked most was the guidance on how to talk with our children and address difficult topics, such as substance use, early relationships, and other challenges that are sometimes taboo in families. Having professional guidance helped me greatly improve my relationship with my daughter.”
Mauricio Vera, an Engaged Parents (Padres Comprometidos) participant, reflected: “What I liked most about the program was how it motivated us to get closer to our students and be more attentive to them. I also learned how to better connect with the school and use tools like ParentVUE to monitor grades, assignments, and important information shared with parents.”
Keiry Soriano, a Strengthening Families participant, added: “What I appreciated most about this program is that it is free, it is offered in both English and Spanish, it is respectful, and inclusive. I learned how to build a stronger relationship with my son and how to handle situations such as bullying, substance use, and warning signs to stay alert. The information we received helped me expand my knowledge and strengthen communication in my family.”
Parent Support Team Lead Natalie Gutiérrez also reflected on the journey families experience through PES programs: “Looking back, every first and last session always moves me. I see parents transform from uncertainty to confidence, joy, and clarity,” she said. “Many families face complex challenges, yet they show up every week after work because they want a better future for their children. Strengthening Families 10–14 is especially meaningful to me—watching families strengthen communication and youth grow emotionally is deeply rewarding. My hope is to continue supporting our facilitators and childcare team, strengthen relationships with family liaisons, and keep updating our programs so families receive the tools and opportunities they deserve. Edu-Futuro represents hope, and every program is a chance to change a life.”
For more information about Edu-Futuro’s Parent Empowerment Services (PES), please contact Natalie Gutiérrez, Parent Support Team Lead, at adultprograms@edu-futuro.org.
Edu-Futuro Raises Critical Operating Funds on Giving Tuesday
Every year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, nonprofit organizations across the country take part in Giving Tuesday: a designated day of generosity that serves as the launching point for many organizations’ year-end fundraising campaigns. This year – Tuesday, December 2, 2025 – Edu-Futuro took part via Give Local Together, an online platform hosted by Spur Local, the official Giving Tuesday partner for the DC region. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, we raised $6,100 in a single day – over 60% of the $10,000 goal for our year-end campaign. Even more importantly, every dollar of that goal raised from Giving Tuesday until the end of the 2025 calendar year will be matched 100% by our longtime partners at the Morris & Gwendolyn Cafritz Foundation.
Individual donations are an increasingly critical part of Edu-Futuro’s fundraising strategy, as reductions in federal funding for nonprofits have led to heightened competition for both public and private grants. The donations we receive for our year-end campaign will directly fund many of the critical programmatic expenses not currently covered by other grants and contracts – including scholarships for our Emerging Leaders Program (ELP). To help spread the word about our year-end campaign, we’ve enlisted the help of committed ambassadors including our alumnus Eric Pleitez (ELP Class of 2019) and volunteers Gabby Coe, Julie Atkins, and Dr. Jennifer Miller. Thanks to their efforts, we’re now even closer to our goal, with $7,600 raised as of the time of writing.
If you’d still like to support Edu-Futuro’s year-end campaign, there’s still time: The Give Local Together platform will be accepting donations until Wednesday, December 31. A gift of any size will help us meet our goal and start the new year with the support we need to continue empowering students, engaging parents, and transforming communities across Northern Virginia!
For more information on how to contribute to Edu-Futuro, please contact Zach Hoskins, Director of Development, at directorofdevelopment@edu-futuro.org.
Registration Opens in January for GED Certification Program
Beginning Monday, January 19, 2026, Edu-Futuro will launch the Social Studies module of the organization’s GED Certification Program. Registration opens on Monday, January 5, 2026. Our GED program is designed for adults, age 18 and older who are not currently enrolled in the traditional school system, offering a second opportunity to earn a high school diploma.
The Social Studies module runs for eight weeks, with classes held Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays from 5:30 to 8:00 p.m. The course is delivered 100% virtually, allowing participants to balance family responsibilities, work, and studies.
The full GED program spans one year and includes 13-week modules in Mathematics and Language Arts, along with 8-week modules in Science and Social Studies. Participants review and master the core skills required for all four GED exam subjects: Reading, Mathematics, Social Studies, and Natural Sciences. This focused, one-subject-at-a-time approach supports meaningful student progress, and allows participants to take the tests needed to earn an official GED certification from the Commonwealth of Virginia. For students, the hard work and sacrifice needed to complete the GED process open pathways to higher wages, job advancement, and greater economic stability.
“The GED program is a powerful tool for transformation in our community,” said Mildrek Bastidas, GED Instructor and Workforce Development Specialist. “The courses build self-confidence while opening doors to academic and professional success. At its core, the program helps break cycles of poverty through the power of education. I am deeply enthusiastic about the launch of this module, as it represents an important first step toward a future filled with new opportunities for our participants.”
For more information about Edu-Futuro’s GED Certification Program and other Workforce Development Services, please contact Joceline Briceño, Workforce Development Team Lead, at workforce@edu-futuro.org.
AmeriCorps/VISTA Corner: Jocelyn Chu
This year, Edu-Futuro continues to receive the invaluable help of both AmeriCorps State and AmeriCorps VISTA members. Our cohort of AmeriCorps State members plays a critical role in the lives of our students and parents by serving as facilitators in the Emerging Leaders Program (ELP) and Workforce Development Services (WDS). Meanwhile, our AmeriCorps VISTA members work in a variety of key capacity-building projects, including the updating of our beneficiary database and development of brand-new curricula for students and parents. This is our corner to highlight the great work being done by Edu-Futuro’s AmeriCorps members. Today, we feature AmeriCorps State member, Jocelyn Chu.
“My name is Jocelyn, and I am an AmeriCorps facilitator for Edu-Futuro’s ELP STEM Robotics and ELP-II programs. Prior to Edu-Futuro, I worked in finance and tutored on the side. Prior to that, I was in college doing research in biomaterials as a biophysics major at Brown University, where I first began tutoring. Access to education, in particular ethics-aware STEM education, has always been important to me. I came to Edu-Futuro this year seeking a way to give back to my community through increasing access to educational opportunities.
“My service so far has been everything I’d hoped for. I divide my time between facilitating the after-school robotics clubs at Kenmore and Gunston Middle Schools, mentoring ELP-II students through the obstacle course of college admissions, and working to improve our programming for future students. In Robotics, it’s been gratifying to see my students progress in their understanding of coding concepts and learn to work more fluently with others. I’m proud of my ELP-II mentees and the dedication and perseverance they’ve shown in their pursuit of higher education and in becoming better versions of themselves.
“Serving at Edu-Futuro has been an incredibly fulfilling and enriching experience—not just for the impact of the programming, but also the privilege of working with some of the most dedicated good people I’ve ever encountered. The staff at Edu-Futuro are inspiring for their hard work, positive attitudes, and their incredible roster of accomplishments over the past 27 years. I’m honored to be working alongside them and other AmeriCorps members.”
For more information on Edu-Futuro’s AmeriCorps VISTA program, please contact Dante Calfayan, our VISTA Team Leader, at vistaleader@edu-futuro.org. For more information on Edu-Futuro’s AmeriCorps State program, please contact Joy Harvey, AmeriCorps Programs Coordinator, at americorps@edu-futuro.org.
Financial Tip: Protecting Yourself as a Tenant in Northern Virginia
Housing is one of the most important needs for every family, yet many tenants feel unsure about their rights when signing a lease, requesting repairs, or dealing with unfair treatment by landlords. Understanding the basic protections provided under Virginia law can empower renters to advocate for themselves, avoid serious conflicts, and prevent costly mistakes. Whether someone is renting a room, an apartment, or a house, knowing the rules is essential for maintaining a safe, stable home. Understanding the Lease Before You Sign — A lease is more than a formality—it is a binding legal agreement. Before signing, tenants should read every page carefully, including the fine print. Key items to review include:
• Monthly rent and due dates
• Late fees and grace periods
• Length of the lease and renewal process
• Rules about guests, parking, and utilities
• Policies on rent increases, pets, and security deposits
Tenants should always receive a written copy of the signed lease. If any part of the contract seems unclear or unfair, it is both acceptable and advisable to ask questions or seek advice before signing. A responsible landlord will not pressure someone to sign immediately.
Security Deposits: What Landlords Can and Cannot Do —Virginia law allows landlords to charge a security deposit, but there are clear rules:
• The deposit cannot exceed two months’ rent.
• After a tenant moves out, the landlord must return the deposit or provide an itemized list of deductions within 45 days.
• Deductions can only be made for actual damages beyond normal wear and tear—not for minor issues such as faded paint, loose door handles, or slightly worn carpet.
Tenants can strengthen their protection by taking photos when they move in and again when they move out. Documenting the condition of the unit provides strong evidence if a dispute arises.
Repairs and Maintenance: A Right to Safe Housing — All tenants have the right to a home that is safe, well-maintained, and in good repair. Landlords are legally required to:
• Keep the premises free of mold, pests, and structural hazards
• Provide working plumbing, heat, smoke detectors, and electricity
• Make necessary repairs within a reasonable timeframe
• Follow health and building codes
If something breaks, tenants should report it in writing as soon as possible. Written requests—sent by email, text, or a tenant portal—create a record that can be used later if needed. If a landlord fails to make repairs, tenants may have the right to file a complaint with local authorities or seek help from consumer affairs agencies.
Rent Increases and Fees — In most cases, landlords may raise rent after the lease term ends, but they must give written notice</STRONG. Twelve-month fixed leases typically do not allow rent increases until the contract expires. Tenants should be cautious of extra fees hidden in the lease—such as administrative charges, “move-in” fees, or unnecessary rental add-ons. Many of these can be negotiated or declined.
Evictions: What Tenants Need to Know — Eviction is a legal process, and tenants have rights at every step. A landlord cannot evict someone without proper notice and a court order—not through intimidation, changing locks, or shutting off utilities.
In most situations:
• Tenants must receive written notice before any court filing.
• Renters have the right to challenge an eviction in court.
• Payment plans or rental assistance may help prevent eviction.
Residents experiencing eviction threats should seek help immediately. Local housing counselors and legal aid organizations can often stop illegal evictions and ensure renters are treated fairly.
Where Tenants Can Find Help — Fairfax County offers strong resources for renters, including the Consumer Affairs Branch, which provides guidance on leases, disputes, and landlord obligations. Their website offers clear information:
https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/cableconsumer/csd/tenant-landlord-laws
Other local organizations and legal aid programs can help tenants understand their rights, negotiate with landlords, and navigate court procedures.
Empowerment Through Knowledge — Renters who understand their rights are better equipped to secure safe, stable housing for their families. By sharing this information across our community, we can help tenants avoid exploitation, resolve disputes, and maintain the housing stability that every family deserves.
Health & Wellness: Latest Vaping Research Reveals Growing Threat to U.S. Teens
New research published on November 3, 2025, in the highly respected JAMA Network Open medical journal, reveals a startling trend: among U.S. middle and high school students who vape, daily nicotine use nearly doubled between 2020 and 2024, even as overall use among all youth declined. The study, conducted by researchers analyzing data from tens of thousands of students, found that the prevalence of daily vaping among current users jumped from 15.4% in 2020 to 28.8% in 2024. During that same period, the percentage of daily users who tried—and were unable—to quit nearly doubled as well, rising from about 28% to 53%.
This research underscores a troubling reality: as some teens experiment less frequently with e-cigarettes overall, those who do use nicotine are increasingly dependent and vape more often. As medical experts have warned for decades, nicotine creates far more than a temporary habit. Scientific evidence shows that nicotine can significantly disrupt brain development in adolescents, affecting areas related to attention, learning, memory, and impulse control. Young people’s brains continue developing into their mid-20s, making them especially vulnerable to the addictive effects of nicotine. Teens who use nicotine products are also more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and long-term dependence. Early nicotine exposure may increase the likelihood of future substance use and ongoing health challenges.
Although vaping may be perceived by some as less dangerous than smoking cigarettes, the JAMA Network Open study highlights that vaping frequently is associated with greater dependence and difficulty quitting—patterns similar to long-term tobacco use. Public health experts warn that this trend among youth is a major concern, as more frequent nicotine use often predicts worse health outcomes over time.
Another dimension of youth nicotine use involves products beyond e-cigarettes. Research from the Keck School of Medicine of the University of Southern California found that use of nicotine pouches among teens also increased significantly between 2023 and 2024. Nicotine pouches are small, flavored, smokeless packets placed between the lip and gum that deliver nicotine without smoke or vapor. Although marketed as alternatives for adult smokers, these products are attracting young users—partly because they are discreet and easy to use in places where vaping isn’t feasible, such as schools.
The rising popularity of such products is alarming because no form of nicotine is safe for youth. Nicotine pouches and vapes alike deliver an addictive substance to developing brains, setting the stage for dependence that is difficult to break. The JAMA Network Open data also reveal that many teens who vape daily are finding it harder to stop, signaling what researchers describe as a “hardening” of nicotine dependence among this group.
The latest research points to a clear message: prevention and education must evolve alongside changes in how teens access and use nicotine products. Policies that limit youth access to vaping devices, flavored nicotine products, and discreet smokeless pouches are critical, as are community-based education campaigns that help families understand the risks. Parents and caregivers can make a difference by having open conversations with young people about nicotine and tobacco products, including vapes and pouches. Staying aware of the signs of nicotine use, monitoring social media influences, and supporting school- and community-based prevention efforts all help reinforce healthy choices.
Protecting teens from nicotine is not just about preventing experimentation. It is about safeguarding brain development, emotional well-being, and long-term health. With research from November 2025 showing rising daily nicotine use and dependence among youth, families and communities have even greater reason to act early and stay informed about how to prevent addiction in the next generation.
Edu-Futuro’s Strengthening Families 10-14 Program, which helps teens to reduce such risky behaviors as tobacco use and vaping, is sponsored in part by a generous grant from the Virginia Foundation for Healthy Youth (VFHY), empowering Virginia’s youth to make healthy choices by promoting active, nutritious and tobacco-free living.
Why Tobacco and Nicotine Still Pose a Serious Threat to Teens and Children
Traditional cigarette smoking among teens has declined dramatically over the last two decades, leading some to believe that youth nicotine addiction is no longer a major concern. Research released on December 17, 2025, however, tells a very different story. While fewer teens are smoking cigarettes, a new generation of tobacco and nicotine products—particularly e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches—continues to put young people at serious risk.
On December 17, 2025, the nationally recognized Monitoring the Future survey released its latest findings on youth substance use in the United States. The long-running study found that youth tobacco use remains a significant public health concern, with nearly one in five high school seniors reporting current use of at least one tobacco or nicotine product. E-cigarettes remain the most commonly used product, with more than 15% of seniors reporting current vaping. Even more concerning, the survey documented a sharp increase in the use of nicotine pouches, a smokeless product often marketed as discreet and “smoke-free,” with use among high school seniors tripling in just two years.
While some adults assume vaping is safer than smoking, additional research shows that nicotine addiction among youth who vape is becoming more severe. A 2025 study conducted by researchers at the University of Southern California (USC) and published in JAMA Network Open examined vaping patterns among U.S. middle and high school students. The study found that daily vaping nearly doubled between 2020 and 2024, and that among teens who vape daily, more than half reported trying—and failing—to quit. USC researchers warned that this trend signals increasing nicotine dependence, even as overall vaping rates appear to level off.
Nicotine is far from harmless, especially for children and adolescents. Medical experts emphasize that nicotine interferes with brain development, which continues into a person’s mid-20s. Exposure during adolescence is linked to problems with attention, learning, memory, and impulse control. Teens who use nicotine are also more likely to experience anxiety and depression and to develop long-term addiction. Early nicotine exposure also increases the likelihood of future substance use, including cigarettes and other drugs.
Today’s tobacco products are designed in ways that appeal to young people. Flavored vapes, sleek devices, and nicotine pouches created for discreet use make experimentation easier and detection more difficult. Public health advocates caution that these products are often marketed to minimize perceived risk while emphasizing convenience, stress relief, or social acceptance—messages that resonate strongly with teens navigating academic pressure and social challenges.
Children are also harmed even when they do not use tobacco themselves. Exposure to secondhand and thirdhand smoke—residue that lingers on clothing, furniture, and surfaces—raises the risk of asthma, respiratory infections, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). In households where adults use tobacco or nicotine products, children are more likely to view use as normal, increasing the likelihood of future experimentation.
The evidence is clear: tobacco and nicotine use among youth remains a serious and evolving threat. Prevention efforts must keep pace with changing products and marketing strategies. Parents, educators, and community organizations plays a critical role by staying informed, encouraging open conversations, and supporting policies that limit youth access to addictive substances.
Protecting children and teens from tobacco is not simply about preventing smoking. It is about safeguarding brain development, mental health, and long-term well-being. As national data released in December 2025 and research conducted by USC make clear, there is no safe form of nicotine for young people, and early prevention can make a lifelong difference.