NEWPORT BEACH : Parents Complain About School Films

Newport-Mesa Unified School District received complaints this week from some parents about films used in sex education and psychology classes.

The parents’ concerns were reminiscent of debates that dominated board discussions two years ago, when a slate of candidates ran for school board positions on a platform promoting “traditional values” and the teaching of creationism.

Of particular concern to one parent was the film “Sybil,” which is shown in an elective high school psychology class during a study of multiple-personality disorders. The parent said the film includes scenes that are too graphic for high school students.

“I find this very objectionable for high school students,” said Lee Munson, whose daughter attends Ensign Intermediate School.

School officials said, however, that they will would not remove “Sybil” from the Newport Harbor High School psychology class. Deputy Supt. Carol Berg said, “It’s a classic psychology film, and I feel we shouldn’t pull it.”