MISSION VIEJO : Clergy to Take Part in School Committee

Saddleback Valley Unified school trustees have decided to convene a panel of parents, teachers and clergy to review the district’s curriculum and make suggestions about “character education.”

Although not an academic course, character education runs through each of the district’s subject areas, according to school officials. The concept includes such traits as respect for authority, honesty and courage.

Despite concerns raised by two parents, trustees voted unanimously Tuesday night to form the panel, which could report its findings as early as December.

One parent, Sandie Gonzales, asked why clergy were being enlisted.

Gonzales, who is a board candidate in the November election, expressed concern about whether the panel’s clergy could accurately reflect the voices of all area churches.

But board President Dore J. Gilbert said he didn’t view clergy participation as a detriment. He said he was confident the district staff could shape a panel that represents a cross section of the community.

“This is nothing new,” Gilbert said of character education. “This is something that has been going on in our school district since the 1980s.”

Trustee Debbie Hughes said she initiated Tuesday night’s discussion after seeing a specialized character education program in Irvine schools.