French education minister says up to 500 schools close Monday due to student protests

Minister cites unmet security conditions

Geffray stated that security requirements were not met in enough locations to allow normal operations. He noted that 24 specific institutions have suffered damage including fires and looting since the unrest began. The number of affected sites is expected to match the count from Friday.

Protesters demand better resources

Students claim their education suffers from a lack of teachers, poor building conditions, and overcrowded classrooms. Demonstrations started at a Paris school on September 17 before spreading to other regions. Organizers are calling for renewed action on Tuesday after the government offered no concrete solutions.

Government warns of infiltrators

Authorities allege that political agitators from the far left have joined the movement and used extreme violence. These individuals allegedly hijacked the student cause to target school staff and facilities. Clashes with police resulted in hundreds of injuries and thousands of arrests last week.