400 French Schools Close After Police-Student Clashes Over Resources

About 400 French schools closed Oct. 2, 2026, after riot police clashed with students protesting crowded classes, teacher shortages and crumbling buildings. The Education Ministry counts 564 to 735 schools hit by blockades or disruption. Teacher unions urged strikes as student groups called for more protests, testing whether fee concessions — lower charges — can calm demands for resources.