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.

1. Only on msnbc.com
   1. 
      Updated 118 minutes ago 5/28/2012 4:33:00 PM +00:00 16-year-old sets off buzz over 325-year-old physics
   2. Updated 114 minutes ago 5/28/2012 4:37:27 PM +00:00 Weather chief quits after misappropriation probe
   3. 

      Courtesy Susan Weinger
      Barbecues 'bottom of the list' for moms of fallen troops
   4. 
      'Noah's Ark' built to save frogs in peril
   5. 
      Panel breaks down the 2012 campaign
   6. 

      NBC News
      The beauty in the details: Idaho’s ‘Field of Heroes’

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.