Guns, knives, and weapons are generally prohibited on school grounds, as provided by school policies and state and federal laws.

Although children in grades 1-12 are generally not eligible for a concealed carry weapon permit, older students on college campuses may be eligible for a concealed carry permit (CCP) in some states—also known as a concealed handgun license (CHL), license to carry (LTC), concealed carry license (CCL), or concealed carry weapon (CCW).

A student’s right to carry a concealed weapon on school grounds may be governed by state and federal laws, as well as school policies.

In Maine, firearms, knives, and other weapons are generally prohibited on the grounds of elementary, middle, and high schools. This prohibition is in line with both state statutes and federal laws, such as the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, which makes it unlawful to knowingly possess a firearm in a school zone, with certain exceptions. Maine law allows for concealed carry of firearms without a permit for individuals 21 years of age or older, or 18 and older if they are active military or honorably discharged veterans. However, this does not extend to school grounds for grades 1-12, where weapons are banned. When it comes to college campuses, the laws and policies may vary. Some colleges in Maine may allow concealed carry on their premises, but this is subject to the institution's policies. Students who are of legal age and meet the criteria may obtain a concealed carry permit, but they must comply with both state laws and the specific regulations of the college or university they attend.