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School committee tightens vandalism language and limits suspensions for K–5 students
Summary
On second reading, the committee approved updates to student code of conduct policy JIC to clarify vandalism consequences and restrict out‑of‑school suspension for students in grade 5 or below to three days except in cases of imminent danger or federal gun‑free grounds.
The Sanford School Committee approved second readings of several policies, including revisions to JIC (student code of conduct) that add clearer language around vandalism and clarify suspension limits for younger students.
Policy changes introduced stronger wording about vandalism — specifying that students must not damage, deface or destroy school or personal property and that disciplinary consequence can include restitution and, where appropriate, referral to law enforcement under applicable Maine law. The committee also added clarifying language restricting out‑of‑school suspension for students in grade 5 or below: such suspensions may not exceed three days except when a student violates the Federal Gun‑Free Schools Act or presents an imminent danger or serious physical injury to themselves or others and less‑restrictive interventions are ineffective.
Committee members said the edits were intended to remove internal inconsistencies in the policy and to emphasize a consistent code of conduct. The second reading was approved by voice vote.
What happens next: the updated policies will be posted and implemented according to standard procedures; administration said it will follow up with staff training and communicate changes to families.
