What is the Gun-Free Schools Act?
The Gun-Free Schools Act requires each state that receives funds under NCLB to have in effect a state law requiring districts to expel for at least one year any student who brings a firearm to school or possesses a firearm in school. Additionally, it requires districts receiving funds under NCLB to have a policy requiring the referral of any student who brings a firearm or weapon to school to the criminal justice or juvenile delinquency system. These requirements not only remove potentially dangerous students from the school environment but also provide a deterrent, discouraging other students from bringing firearms to school. Over time, this has the potential to make the school environment safer by reducing the number of firearms present in schools. As teachers and students feel safe in their schools, they can focus on learning.
