Thousands students France have taken to the streets to protest the state of French schools. They have clashed riot police in violent protests. There are reports that police used tear gas against some demonstrators. The student action began in high schools Paris in late September and quickly spread nationwide. France's Education Ministry has reported that more than 1,020 high schools have been affected protests or strikes. This is roughly one four high schools. The country's interior minister reported that 5,000 people had been arrested the past week. He said the majority them were teenagers. At least 65 school staff have also been injured.
The students' main concerns are what they perceive as poor conditions high schools. They are angry about a lack teachers, overcrowded classrooms, inadequate facilities, and dilapidated school buildings. One 15-year-old student said: "There are 35 pupils class. We don't even have enough chairs." Students are calling greater investment in education after what they see as years underinvestment. particular, they want more spending schools in poorer suburbs. Students say schools deprived areas Paris receive fewer resources despite greater educational needs. The education minister said there would be "concrete responses" the government.
