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 Massachusetts, the laws and policies regarding fights or threats of violence on school grounds are governed by both state statutes and individual school district policies. The Massachusetts General Laws (M.G.L.) under the Education Code provide a framework for addressing student discipline, including the requirement for public schools to create and publish codes of conduct which must include procedures for suspending or expelling students. The Anti-Bullying Law (M.G.L. c. 71, § 37O) requires schools to have plans in place to prevent bullying, which can include fights or threats of violence. Additionally, the state's 'zero tolerance' policy can lead to expulsion for possession of weapons or certain violent behaviors. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act, mandate a one-year expulsion for students who bring firearms to school, with some discretion allowed for school administrators. Criminal laws may also apply if a student's conduct constitutes a criminal offense, such as assault. Each public, private, and charter school may have additional policies that further specify the consequences for fights or threats of violence.