Student who blew kiss to mom denied diploma

updated 9:34 a.m. ET June 17, 2009

PORTLAND, Maine - A Maine high school senior says he was denied his diploma because he bowed during graduation and blew a kiss to his mother.

Justin Denney was about to receive his Bonny Eagle High School diploma on Friday when he pointed at friends and relatives.

Schools Superintendent Suzanne Lukas ordered him back to his seat. She told the Portland Press Herald newspaper she was enforcing behavior rules.

Justin's mother, Mary Denney, said her son's showboating didn't break any rules. She told WMTW-TV "a kiss to your mom is not misbehavior." She is seeking an apology — and a diploma for her son.

The commencement at the Cumberland County Civic Center also was disrupted when a giant inflatable rubber duck and beach balls were thrown. One student was ejected.

Some parents want a review of commencement policies.

More from msnbc.com Red Tape: Now’s your chance to spy on Google Fact or fiction? ‘McCain’ Dems opposed health bill Kenyan girls given a chance to dream On Twitter: Breaking news updates | Weird and wild

MORE FROM EDUCATION

Education Section Front

Newsweek: The fight over abstinence at Harvard Failure 101: A class students could use Are rankings unfair to U.S. higher ed? Obama uses money to urge school changes Ranks of millionaire college presidents up again Community college plan may not be enough Education Section Front   Add Education headlines to your news reader: