RSU 25 board begins first reading of updated student code of conduct

The RSU 25 school board opened a detailed first reading of its student code of conduct (policy JIC), discussing changes to bring the handbook into alignment with recent legal and practice updates.

Administrators said the policy replaces outdated language, incorporates guidance from sample policies (referred to in the transcript as "msma"), and clarifies discipline ladders across K–12. A key point in the discussion: the policy now reflects a legislative change that prevents suspension of students in fifth grade and below except in cases that create safety concerns for others. "You cannot suspend a third grader by action unless it's for a situation that is unsafe," the presenter said.

Board members and administrators reviewed the discipline levels (1–5), removed obsolete terminology (for example, references to pagers), and debated how to preserve administrative flexibility so consequences can be proportionate to the behavior. The administration emphasized separating behavior consequences from academic remediation: academic dishonesty may result in grade reduction but should not automatically remove a student's opportunity to meet proficiency standards.

Other updates clarified that makeup work is not a punitive remedy and described restrictions for technology access when students repeatedly violate policies. The presenter said the policy includes charts drawn from sample materials to guide administrators while leaving room for context‑specific judgement.

The item remained at first reading for further refinement; no final adoption was recorded in the transcript.