Mayor Greg Nickels has introduced four Seattle police officers assigned to middle schools, including Denny, as part of the Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative.

The officers will focus on crisis intervention, guidance and mentoring. They will wear “soft” uniforms – knit shirts with the Seattle Police Department logo.

“We know that middle school can be a difficult time for young people, and we want to help," said Nickels. "This partnership between the city of Seattle and Seattle Public Schools puts four officers in our schools to provide a guiding hand and an open ear – with a goal of preventing violence among our youth."

“Schools are a reflection of the larger community and it is the collective responsibility of the community to provide for the safety and well-being of our children,” said Seattle Schools Superintendent Maria L. Goodloe-Johnson. “I applaud the city of Seattle for its commitment to partner with us for the benefit of our students. We are proud to have these four middle school emphasis officers join our Seattle Public Schools team.”

Denny was included the mayor's action based on the success the school has had with an officer patrolling the campus since 2005 and because of a high number suspensions and expulsions for acts of violence.

Other schools to receive an officer include Madrona K-8, Aki Kurose, Meany and Washington middle schools.

The Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative focuses on about 800 children who are at highest risk of perpetuating violence or becoming victims. The goal of the initiative is to decrease youth violence by half.

The City Council appropriated $8 million for the Seattle Youth Violence Prevention Initiative in the 2009-2010 budget. A Council review of the initiative is under way and Council action is expected on April 27.