Repels Grant

What is REPELS?

The REPELS initiative is funded by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security through its Targeted Violence and Terrorism Prevention Program. Coordinated by GRREC, the project is designed to make schools and communities safer by reducing violence, supporting mental health, and building resilience among students and educators.

Who it serves

REPELS reaches 11 districts and 45 schools across the GRREC region, focusing on middle school students (grades 6–9), with programs also available in alternative and high school settings.

Why it matters

Students succeed in environments where they feel safe, supported, and connected. REPELS equips educators, administrators, and community partners with proven tools to recognize threats early, respond effectively, and strengthen a positive culture of safety in schools.

Key goals

• Increase community awareness of school and youth violence prevention.
• Support administrators with referral networks and training.
• Expand mentoring and SEL programs for students.
• Build capacity to identify and respond to digital threats.
• Train staff in mental health first aid and trauma-informed practices.
• Provide prevention programming and anti-bullying education directly to students.
• Strengthen school safety through Behavioral Threat Assessment & Management teams.

What we do

• Training & Certification
  • Adult Mental Health First Aid
  • Trauma-Informed Practices implementation
  • Threat Assessment training (KCSS model)
  • Digital Threat Assessment (Safer Schools Together curriculum)
• School Safety Supports
  • Safety Rounds & Risk Assessments
  • BTAM team coaching and development
  • Resources for National Bullying Prevention Month
• Student Support
  • Mentoring programs in alternative and middle schools
  • Social-emotional learning strategies for advisory and mentor groups
  • Student-focused prevention activities
• Community Partnerships
  • Building referral networks with health and community organizations
  • Bystander training and public awareness initiatives

Timeline & funding

The grant runs from October 2024 through June 2027, with $787,369 in federal funding provided for the first two years and GRREC supporting costs through the final year.

Contact

For details, scheduling, or partnership opportunities, please contact:
GRREC Safety & Student Support Team

• Scott Howard, Director
• Brad Stevenson, Coordinator
• Cassie Zenner, Chief Learning Services
• Amanda Neighbors, Administrative Assistant