Image credit: Sarah Meyssonnier/Reuters
Protesters demonstrate in the rain, holding signs and a French flag as water sprays across the street.
High school students, teachers, and supporters across France protested in Sept. and Oct. 2026, including demonstrations on Oct. 6, to demand better school conditions. The protesters called for more teachers, additional school funding and repairs to poorly maintained buildings. The demonstrations came amid concerns about overcrowded classrooms and teacher shortages.
(AP Photo/Thibault Camus)
The Associated Press reported that the French Ministry estimated 266,000 people joined demonstrations nationwide on Oct 6, 2026 including 56,000 in Paris.
Protesters raise concerns about teacher shortages, deteriorating school buildings, overcrowded classrooms and a lack of resources.
The education ministry reported that classes were fully or partially suspended at 891 schools on Oct. 6.
(AP Photo/Jeremias Gonzalez)
Officials announced an online portal for students to share their concerns, while a student group called for further demonstrations.
Student groups have said they will continue demonstrating until their concerns are resolved. The government has begun responding to complaints, but students are still calling for meaningful improvements to schools.