Seattle Police Chief Kathleen O’Toole West Seattle's Denny International Middle School’s Youth Ambassador (YA) class this afternoon. The class, facilitated by Lori Markowitz and Denny staff Mathew Riippa, emphasizes peer mentorship, leadership and compassion. The YA’s are currently culminating their acts of compassion projects.

The scholars felt compelled to explore issues of student safety by writing a grant to help promote safety awareness.

In preparation for the Chief O’Toole’s visit, the YA’s surveyed approximately 150 eighth graders to acquire a sample of youth opinions on how they feel safe in their neighborhood as well as questions and comments they would want to share with the chief.

Students told the chief their stories about incidents involving crime in the neighborhood.