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 Arizona, the regulation of school discipline in the context of fights or threats of violence on school grounds is governed by a combination of state statutes, local school district policies, and federal laws. Arizona's statutes, particularly within the Education Code, outline the general framework for school discipline, including the authority of schools to suspend or expel students for violent conduct or threats. Each school district in Arizona may have its own specific policies that detail the procedures and consequences for such incidents, which can vary between public schools, private schools, and charter schools. Additionally, federal laws such as the Gun-Free Schools Act impose mandatory penalties for firearms possession on school property. When student conduct constitutes a crime, state and federal criminal laws may also apply, potentially involving law enforcement and the juvenile or criminal justice system. It is important for students and parents to be familiar with the specific policies of their school district, as well as Arizona state law, to understand the potential disciplinary actions that can be taken in response to fights or threats of violence on school grounds.