Buffalo, N.Y. – A teacher at Buffalo Public Schools’ William J. Grabiarz School of Excellence has been placed on paid administrative leave after an incident earlier this month where two students at Public School 79 were inadvertently given THC-infused edibles, mistaking them for regular candy.
According to a statement from the district, the teacher unknowingly offered the students gummies during a swim class, believing they were Sour Patch Kids, reports WKBW. The Buffalo Police report revealed that while the gummies did closely resemble ordinary candy, the packaging had a small but clear label indicating it contained 500 milligrams of THC.
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One of the students began feeling unwell after consuming the gummies. Both students were immediately taken to a hospital for evaluation, and their parents were promptly notified. Buffalo Police were also informed of the incident. The teacher, who didn’t know the gummies were infused with THC, admitted to offering them to the students.
The school district has emphasized its commitment to student safety, describing the situation as “extremely serious.” The teacher was placed on paid leave on the same day as the incident while investigations are underway.
Concerns About Accidental THC Ingestion in Children
This incident reflects a growing concern surrounding the accidental ingestion of THC edibles, particularly among children. Similar cases have occurred across the country. For instance, three students at Hayes Elementary School in Oklahoma City were hospitalized April 7 when one student mistakenly shared a THC-infused edible, believing it to be candy, reports News 9.
The effects of THC ingestion in children can be severe. Medical professionals warn that children exposed to THC may become drowsy, paranoid, or experience hallucinations. Some cases have led to seizures or respiratory distress requiring hospital support.
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The issue appears to be widespread. Last year, the Upstate New York Poison Center received 540 reports of cannabis-related exposures, with approximately two-thirds involving children under five who had unintentionally consumed edibles, reports WRVO.
While some poison centers — such as UVA Health’s Blue Ridge Poison Center, have seen a slight decrease in THC edibles cases, dropping from 195 reported incidents in 2023 to 161 in 2024 — the risks remain significant.
What Can Schools and Parents Do About THC Edibles?
This latest incident highlights the importance of vigilance in preventing THC edibles from entering schools. Parents and educators are urged to educate themselves and children about the potential dangers of edibles, which are often packaged to resemble harmless treats.
Schools can train staff to recognize the signs and packaging of THC-infused products.
Parents are also encouraged to store THC edibles and other cannabis products safely out of children’s reach and discuss the importance of not sharing unknown food items with others, especially at school.
