This third chapter of "The Yearbook of School Law, 1986" summarizes and analyzes state and federal court decisions handed down in 1985 affecting the legal rights of students in elementary and secondary schools. Among the topics examined are public school pupil assignment, tuition, transportation, compulsory attendance, and bilingual and bicultural programs; the public provision of services to students in private or parochial schools; student participation in athletics and other activities; students' civil rights and civil liberties; sanctions for misconduct; student testing and placement; and the desegregation of schools. The chapter notes that first amendment religion cases assumed increasing importance during the year, that school search cases were heard by several state and federal courts, and that, following a recent trend, local districts continue to claim that desegregation standards mandated by court order have been met. Litigation concerning students with disabilities is covered in a separate chapter of the yearbook. (PGD)