France to Close Up to 500 High Schools as Student Protests Spread

France's Education Minister Edouard Geffray announced that up to 500 high schools nationwide will be fully or partially closed on October 5 due to a wave of student protests, citing unmet security conditions. The protests, which began September 17 in Paris, have spread nationally, with 24 schools torched or damaged and 78 education staff injured. Students demand action on teacher shortages, long school days, and dilapidated buildings. Authorities blame far-left infiltrators for escalating violence. Over 5,000 people, 85% minors, have been arrested, sparking criticism of police tactics. Amnesty International condemned disproportionate force, while officials defend security operations. Protest organizers call for continued demonstrations on October 6, as Prime Minister Sebastien Lecornu proposes measures to address staffing and infrastructure issues.