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 South Carolina, 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 South Carolina Code of Laws, particularly within the Education Code, outlines the basic framework for school discipline and punishment. These laws mandate that each school district in South Carolina adopt a code of conduct that includes policies on student behavior, disciplinary actions, and the rights of students. The Safe School Climate Act, for example, requires schools to develop policies to combat bullying and violence. Additionally, certain acts of violence or threats may fall under criminal conduct and be subject to South Carolina's criminal statutes, potentially leading to juvenile justice proceedings or criminal charges. Federal laws, such as the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) and Title IX, may also influence school discipline policies, especially in ensuring the rights of students with disabilities and addressing discrimination or harassment. Each public school, private school, and charter school may have its own specific policies that adhere to these legal frameworks, and these policies can vary widely in terms of disciplinary measures and procedures.