French High Schools Partially Close Amid Ongoing Student Protests

On October 5, 2026, hundreds of high schools in France partially closed as students protested against poor learning conditions. The protests are part of a larger movement demanding better resources and improved school environments.

Students have been blocking entrances to their schools since late September, citing issues like teacher shortages, overcrowded classrooms, and deteriorating facilities. Many students gathered outside their schools despite the closures, showing their support for the movement.

Education Minister Edouard Geffray reported that up to 500 of France’s 3,700 high schools, known as lycees, were expected to be affected. In the Paris region alone, a third of the high schools for teenagers aged 15 to 17 were closed.

Protests have turned violent in some areas, with reports of vandalism and clashes between students and police. Since the protests began, more than 5,000 people have been arrested, with many being minors. The police have faced accusations of using excessive force, leading to investigations into their actions.

In response to the unrest, Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu has called for a meeting with local leaders to address the issues in schools. The government is also considering a new law that would require those responsible for damaging public property to pay for repairs, rather than using taxpayer money.

As the protests continue, the situation remains tense, with students and unions pushing for significant changes in the education system.