French schools to close as student protests over funding and conditions escalate

Around 500 French schools will remain closed or partially open tomorrow due to unrest linked to student protests. Thousands of pupils, students, and teachers have demonstrated nationwide since last week over issues like building maintenance, teacher shortages, and large class sizes. Most protests were peaceful, but some involved fireworks, vandalism, and violence against police and bystanders. Over 5,000 people have been arrested, 85 percent of them minors, according to Le Monde. Students joined Thursday, partly in solidarity and over university funding concerns. Authorities have deployed large police forces, drawing criticism from Jean-Luc Mélenchon, who called the response disproportionate. Education Minister Geffray accused him of fueling anger. Officials report 78 school staff injured and 24 schools damaged by fire or looting.