Designed as a general introduction to some areas of the law which directly affect teachers and students in California schools, the purpose of this handbook is to enable teachers to protect themselves in the performance of their duty and to protect their students by conveying needed information about student rights and responsibilities. Part I, "Fundamental Rights of Students," discusses the right to an education, compulsory education, searches and seizures, due process, freedom of speech and expression, and religion in the school. Part II, "Student Behavior," describes the regulations governing suspension and expulsion, corporal pubishment, dress codes, grooming and appearance, smoking, and truancy. Part III discusses the teacher's duty to protect students. Part IV, "Crimes, Law Enforcement, and the Schools," summarizes criminal violations concerning alcohol, drugs and narcotics, weapons, fighting, theft, miscellaneous "youth crimes," crimes against school personnel and property, and loitering. Part V, "Privacy and Disclosure of Student Records," discusses annual notification of parents or guardians, access to records, pupil record categories, and correction or removal of information. Part VI, "Special Programs," discusses special education, compensatory education, Indian education, and the rights of gay students. Although coverage of the subject matter is general, citation of legal authority provides a starting point for further investigation. (CM)