France Shuts Nearly 900 Schools as Violent Education Protests Escalate

France shut down nearly 900 schools Tuesday as tens of thousands of students, parents, and teachers protested for increased public education funding. Demonstrators blockaded high schools in cities including Paris, Nantes, and Lyon. Police used tear gas and water cannons to clear some blockades as clashes escalated. Class boycotts and school blockades have led to more than 6,100 arrests, according to reports. The protests have drawn attention to concerns over overcrowded classrooms, staff shortages, and deteriorating school conditions nationwide.