Protests Disrupt French Schools Over Poor Conditions

Protesters disrupted numerous high schools across France on Tuesday. The Union Syndicale Lycéenne described the morning as historic, with 2,000 high schools stalled and all universities involved in the protests. Students, parents, and teachers are united against inadequate school conditions.

These protests, now in their third week, demand government action to address underfunded and neglected schools. Many complain about deteriorating infrastructure. Demonstrations include large student gatherings blocking school entrances, displaying signs, and chanting.

“In Saint-Denis, near Paris, schools have ceilings crumbling, damp walls, and rodent issues,” a protester shared with CBS News.

Protesters have clashed with law enforcement, causing school damage and arson incidents. Authorities reported detaining over 5,000 individuals, with most being teenagers.

Footage captured protesters fleeing as police deployed tear gas and stun grenades. In Lens, a 15-year-old lost a hand after handling a police grenade. A police source stated the teenager picked up a sting-ball grenade that exploded.

Another incident in Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône involved a 14-year-old who sustained a jaw fracture after reportedly being hit by a tear gas grenade.

Local officials are investigating both cases. The French government faces pressure as political negotiations stall ahead of next spring’s presidential elections. Protesters call for action, with one saying, “I’ll keep pushing for a response.”