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 Illinois, 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. The Illinois School Code (105 ILCS 5/) provides the framework for school discipline, including policies on bullying, harassment, and other forms of violence. Each school district in Illinois is required to create and enforce its own discipline policy consistent with state law, which must include provisions for addressing student conduct that could cause harm to others. These policies are typically outlined in student handbooks and codes of conduct. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), also influence school discipline practices, particularly in cases involving weapons or students with special needs. Additionally, certain acts of violence or threats may be subject to Illinois criminal statutes, which can lead to juvenile or criminal charges, depending on the severity of the incident and the age of the student involved.