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 Nevada, the regulation of fights or threats of violence on school grounds is governed by a combination of state statutes, local school district policies, and federal laws. Nevada's statutes, particularly within the Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS), address school discipline and safety. For instance, NRS 392.4635 outlines the policies for suspension and expulsion of pupils for violent conduct. Additionally, the Safe and Respectful Learning Environment (SRLE) policy, as per NRS 388.122 to 388.134, mandates that schools in Nevada establish policies to prevent bullying and cyberbullying, which can include threats of violence. Each school district in Nevada may have more specific policies that address how fights and threats are handled, which can vary between public schools, private schools, and charter schools. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act and the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), may also influence disciplinary actions in schools. Moreover, certain behaviors may fall under state and federal criminal laws, potentially leading to juvenile justice system involvement. It is important for students, parents, and educators to be familiar with the specific policies of their local school district in addition to state and federal regulations.