School policies and state laws regarding fights or threats of violence on school grounds 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.

In Alaska, the handling of fights or threats of violence on school grounds is governed by a combination of state statutes, local school district policies, and federal laws. Alaska's statutes within the Education Code outline the general framework for school discipline, including potential responses to violence or threats. Each school district in Alaska may have its own specific policies that further detail the procedures and consequences for such incidents. These policies are typically found in the student handbook or the district's code of conduct. Public schools, private schools, and charter schools may have different policies, although all must comply with applicable state and federal laws. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act, impose certain mandatory penalties for specific offenses, such as firearms possession on school property. Additionally, when student conduct constitutes a crime, state and federal criminal laws may be invoked, leading to potential juvenile justice system involvement or criminal charges, depending on the severity of the incident and the age of the students involved.