THC edibles incident leaves Bucks County middle school students sick, district says

THC edibles make Pennsbury students sick

Several Pennsbury middle school students became ill after the district says they ate edibles containing THC. 

YARDLEY, PA. - Several Pennsbury middle school students reportedly became sick Thursday after allegedly eating edibles containing THC, the chemical found in marijuana, according to a letter sent to families by Pennsbury School District leaders.

What we know:

A small number of students at a Pennsbury middle school allegedly ingested THC-laced edibles and became ill Thursday, April 9, according to Superintendent Thomas A. Smith and other district officials. 

Emergency medical personnel were called right away.

What they're saying:

"Like many schools, we are seeing an increase in the use of vapes, vapes with THC, and edibles in our high school and middle schools. Our student code of conduct clearly states that drugs are not permitted on school campuses and students will be disciplined accordingly," said Smith.

The district says these topics are addressed with students in the curriculum and with families through the Pennsbury Parent and Family Academy, which holds presentations each fall on substance use and online harassment.

Parents react to students hospitalized after taking edibles 

Parents in the community expressed concern and fear after learning about the situation. 

"I feel like I'm going to cry. It's frightening really..wonder how they got them. It's very scary. They're much too young, so I hope they're okay. That's my first concern," said Kristin Tyler, a parent. 

Dan Weissgerber, who has three children in the Pennsbury School District, said, "It's an unfortunate reality of modern life. kids are exposed to this stuff and all thse THC gummies and stuff. They"re easy to conceal and kids don't know the potency of them." 

"It's something I always tell my kids, don't mess around with this stuff. I'm glad the school district did everything they could to make sure they were safe. Despite their best efforts, things like this make their way into the schools," said Weissgerber. 

"When I first heard it, I was pretty shocked. That's not great getting stretchered out. Because who knows where they are getting it, what else is in there, you know, it's a danger," said David Kelley. 

Rana Sing, who lives in the neighborhood, said, "My first reaction is where did they get that right? I'm surprised, it's so easily available. Middle school. 13-years old, that's sad." 

Lower Makefield Township Police are investigating how the students obtained the edibles. 

What you can do:

District leaders are urging families to attend future academy sessions to learn more about the challenges facing students. 

"We recognize that these topics can sometimes be difficult to discuss, but we are committed to addressing the issues facing our students and our schools," said Smith.

The district is also sharing evidence-based resources to help parents and caregivers talk to their children about substance use. Officials say they are working to improve every aspect of the educational experience in Pennsbury and appreciate ongoing family support.

District officials stress the importance of open communication between families and schools to address substance use and related challenges.

What we don't know:

Officials did not specify how many students were involved, their current conditions, or whether any disciplinary actions have been taken.