Laws regarding school discipline and punishment vary from state to state; from school district to school district; and between public schools, private schools, and charter schools. School discipline and punishment laws are generally located in a state’s statutes (often in the Education Code) and further defined in a specific school’s policies and procedures. Federal laws may also apply in particular school discipline contexts. And state and federal criminal laws may apply to certain student conduct that occurs on school property or at school-sponsored events.

Exclusionary discipline is any type of school discipline that removes or excludes a student from their usual educational setting. Two of the most common exclusionary discipline actions are suspension and expulsion.

Corporal punishment is the use of physical force—usually paddling or spanking—to punish a student for misbehavior. Corporal punishment against students is legal in approximately 19 states but is controversial and the subject of proposed state and federal legislation to limit or prohibit its use.

In Colorado, school discipline and punishment are governed by state statutes, particularly within the Education Code, and are further detailed in the policies and procedures of individual school districts, whether they be public, private, or charter schools. Federal laws, such as those protecting students with disabilities, also influence school discipline practices. Colorado prohibits corporal punishment in public schools, aligning with a growing trend against physical discipline. Exclusionary discipline, such as suspension and expulsion, is permitted under Colorado law but is regulated to ensure due process and educational continuity. The state encourages schools to use positive behavior supports and interventions before resorting to exclusionary discipline. Additionally, state and federal criminal laws may be invoked for student conduct that constitutes a crime, whether it occurs on school property or during school-sponsored events. It's important to note that each school district may have specific rules and procedures that further define how discipline is administered, so it is advisable to consult the local district's policies for precise guidance.