Why French Students Are Protesting and Blockading Schools

Students across France are protesting problems at their schools.

They say there are not enough teachers and resources, and that school days can be long and classes overcrowded.

The protests began at a high school in Créteil on September 17 and then spread.

Some students have blocked school entrances, and some demonstrations have involved tear gas and burning bins.

The government says students may have real concerns, but violence is unacceptable.

Critics say some police used too much force against teenagers.

Videos on social media have helped spread dramatic scenes from the protests.

The government says the hard-left party France Unbowed is encouraging the movement, but the party denies being behind it.

Jean-Luc Mélenchon supports the protests while calling for non-violent methods.