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 Kentucky, the regulation of school discipline in the context of fights or threats of violence is governed by a combination of state statutes, local school district policies, and federal laws. The Kentucky Revised Statutes (KRS) contain provisions related to student conduct, discipline, and safety. For instance, KRS Chapter 158 outlines the duties of schools regarding student discipline and safety, including the requirement for schools to have codes of conduct that address the consequences for disruptive behavior and threats of violence. Each school district in Kentucky is responsible for adopting its own code of conduct that aligns with state law, which will detail specific policies regarding fights and threats on school grounds. These local policies will dictate the procedures for addressing such incidents, including potential disciplinary actions ranging from suspension to expulsion. Additionally, federal laws such as the Gun-Free Schools Act impose mandatory penalties for certain offenses involving weapons on school property. When student conduct constitutes a crime, state and federal criminal laws may also apply, potentially involving law enforcement and the juvenile justice system. It's important to note that public schools, private schools, and charter schools may have different policies and procedures, although all must comply with applicable state and federal laws.