French student protests spread to hundreds of schools as teens demand respect

Student protests dubbed the "Student Revolution" continue across France, affecting hundreds of high schools. A student explains in Le Monde that young people want to be heard, considered, and respected after years of ignored education system problems. Nicolas Boucaud-Bialchuk, a final-year student from Nantes, condemns violence and vandalism, stating these acts don't represent the majority. He cites teacher shortages, degraded buildings, and insufficient resources as key grievances, insisting students are capable of independent thought and reject political co-option by other groups. Authorities suspended classes in 400-500 high schools due to security concerns, with 24 schools damaged and 78 staff injured. Around 5,000 people have been detained since protests began September 17. Student organizations plan further mobilization on October 6, while the Education Minister promised faster teacher replacements and measures on class sizes and student participation.