The recent spate of teen-on-teen robberies was a major topic at last week's meeting of the West Seattle Community Safety Partnership at the Southwest Police Precinct.

A group of approximately 20 parents and community members expressed concerns to police and to school administrators and staff from both Chief Sealth and West Seattle high schools. Representing the Seattle School District were Executive Director of High Schools Ammon McWashington and Mark Della of the district's Safety and Security office.

McWashington said the district was responsible for children who are on their way to or from school, but beyond that, behavior problems became a civil issue. He noted, however, that the schools and the legal system often work together, and that students have been suspended for behaviors falling under the parameters of what he termed, "creating havoc." He and the school principals encouraged residents who live near campuses to continue to call the school office to report problems, and he indicated that security officers would be dispatched, as available, to handle the issues.

Attendees, including several high-school students, expressed particular concern that those who report crimes are hassled after the fact. Administrators said getting the parents of students together for a chat is often enough to bring about a resolution. But Seattle Police officers admitted that in some instances an anti-harassment or no-contact order (issued by the courts) might be warranted. Because such orders are civil decrees, violations, once reported by the victim, are a civil matter that will be handled by the police and by the court system.

When the topic turned to prevention of these problem, one obviously frustrated parent advocated public humiliation for the perpetrators. Others suggested the installation of security cameras or parental patrols of the school parking lots (a frequent trouble spot). West Seattle High School Principal Susan Ders/ welcomed the idea of more parents being present at the school. She noted that a parent volunteer-coordinator position is budgeted for next year.

"We'd need to provide training," Ders/ said, regarding increased parental supervision on campus. "But I'm open to the idea."

Megan Sheppard may be reached at wseditor@robinsonnews.com