LAS VEGAS — A new effort to curb relationship violence is reaching Nevada’s classrooms. Project REAL, a nonprofit dedicated to educating teens about healthy relationships, has been delivering its free REALSafe workshops to local high schools since October 2021.

Program details and community impact

The workshops are offered at no cost to schools, allowing districts to add the curriculum without straining budgets. After each session, students are asked to complete a short survey. According to Project REAL Executive Director Mike Kamer, more than 70% of respondents say they will read the 17‑page educational packet on domestic and relationship violence on their own time, even though no credit or grade is attached.

“Students want to protect themselves and others,” Kamer said. “When they choose to study the material voluntarily, it shows a real commitment to safety and respect in their future relationships.”

Evidence of long‑term benefits

Project REAL points to research indicating that teens who receive early education about relationship dynamics are far less likely to enter dangerous partnerships later in life. By teaching warning signs, communication skills, and resources for help, the program aims to break the cycle of abuse that can begin in a household and follow children into adulthood.

Challenges and next steps

One of the biggest hurdles, Kamer noted, is fitting the workshops into already‑packed school schedules. While administrators recognize the importance of the topic, competing academic priorities can push the sessions lower on the agenda.

To make it easier for schools to adopt the program, Project REAL has created an online scheduling tool that lets districts select dates, allocate staff time, and coordinate with the organization’s facilitators. The tool is freely available on the nonprofit’s website.

How parents and community members can help

Parents are encouraged to reinforce the lessons learned in class by discussing healthy relationship habits at home. Local faith groups and community organizations can also partner with schools to host supplemental events, such as speaker series or parent‑education nights, further strengthening the message.

With continued support from educators, families, and community leaders, Project REAL hopes to expand its reach beyond Clark County, bringing its proven curriculum to more schools across Nevada and the surrounding region.

Original reporting: News 3 KSNV Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.