French schools confront staffing cuts and class closures

Parents and teachers at the Édouard‑Herriot collège in Chenôve organized a "collège mort" protest to oppose the planned elimination of a principal education adviser (CPE) position that was created after a knife attack in March 2024. The mobilization, supported by several teachers’ unions, warned that removing the role would weaken safety and student support in the already tense school environment.

Meanwhile, the Direction des services académiques in Saône‑et‑Loire reviewed its 2026‑2027 school plan and decided to keep eight of the 52 primary classes slated for closure. The saved classes include several in Chalon‑sur‑Saône, Saint‑Vallier and other communes, while closures continue at other sites.

Both events illustrate growing tension over staffing and resource decisions within French public education.