Protesters disrupted numerous high schools across France on Tuesday. The student union, Union Syndicale Lycéenne, described it as a historic event. They reported that around 2,000 high schools were halted. Universities were also involved in the protests led by students, parents, and teachers against poor school conditions.

The protests, now in their third week, focus on government inaction regarding underfunded schools that are deteriorating. Students blocked school entrances, displaying signs and chanting. One protester in Saint-Denis noted, “High schools see the ceilings falling apart, water in the walls, rats.”

Tensions escalated as protesters and law enforcement clashed. There was damage and arson at school buildings. Police detained over 5,000 people, mostly teenagers, linked to the protests. In Bordeaux, students and French union members marched against the inadequate resources.

“I’ll make noise as long as I’m not getting a response,” a protester said.

Video footage showed protesters fleeing officers who deployed tear gas and stun grenades. A 15-year-old in Lens lost a hand after a police grenade exploded when he picked it up. In Saint-Ouen-l’Aumône, a tear gas grenade reportedly broke a 14-year-old’s jaw.

Local investigations are underway. The French government faces political challenges with upcoming presidential elections. So far, no significant concessions have been made to the protesters.