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 Indiana, school policies and state laws regarding fights or threats of violence on school grounds are primarily governed by the Indiana Code, particularly within the Education Title. Each school district in Indiana has the authority to establish its own policies and procedures for handling incidents of violence or threats, which must comply with state laws. These policies often include disciplinary measures such as suspension, expulsion, and referral to law enforcement when necessary. Indiana law requires schools to provide a safe environment for students, and this includes having policies in place to address bullying, fighting, and other forms of violence. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act, also impose certain requirements on schools to ensure safety and may mandate specific consequences for particular offenses. Additionally, state and federal criminal laws can apply to student conduct that constitutes a crime, whether it occurs on school property or during school-sponsored events. It is important for students and parents to be aware of both the specific school district's policies and the relevant state statutes to understand the potential consequences of fights or threats of violence in schools.