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 Texas, school policies and state laws regarding fights or threats of violence on school grounds are primarily governed by the Texas Education Code. This code outlines the responsibilities of school districts in maintaining discipline and safety. Each school district in Texas may have its own specific policies that address how to handle fights and threats of violence, which are typically outlined in the district's student code of conduct. These policies must comply with state law and are enforced by school administrators. Texas law allows for various disciplinary actions, including suspension, placement in a disciplinary alternative education program, or expulsion for serious offenses. Additionally, certain acts of violence or threats may also be subject to state and federal criminal laws, and students could face juvenile or criminal justice proceedings depending on the severity of the incident. Federal laws, such as the Gun-Free Schools Act, impose additional requirements on schools to ensure a safe environment and may mandate specific consequences for particular violations, such as bringing a firearm to school.
