Student discipline is essential for student learning. School leaders are authorized by Local Boards of Education to administer student discipline consequences when the code of conduct is violated. This helps to ensure a safe and orderly environment, which is a primary responsibility of school administrators. However, students individual rights such as due process must also be respected during enforcement of board approved discipline policies. This inherent conflict of a safe and orderly environment and respecting individual student rights creates a potential dilemma for school leaders, especially in light of recent acts of school violence. This legal research reviews student discipline cases appealed to the Georgia State Board of Education in the two years from 2012-2013. Consideration is given to the types of cases appealed and the grounds for appeal in all 87 cases. Because only 5 cases were reversed or remanded in two years, these specific cases have been examined thoroughly for trends and practical knowledge to be used by all stakeholders including school administrators, teachers, students, parents, and Local Board of Education members.