Protests shutter hundreds of French schools as violence flares

Hundreds of schools across France have been closed due to an escalating student protest movement, with at least 400 high schools shut and 560 reporting protests or disruptions. The protests, which began in the Paris area last week, have spread nationwide, resulting in violent clashes with police, fires, and blockades. Students are protesting against large class sizes and absent teachers, holding signs like 'We have a future to build, not to endure.' The protests coincide with a public sector strike against government budget plans, increasing pressure on President Macron ahead of next year's elections.