PARIS, France: French high school students blocked schools again on October 6 as a nationwide protest movement demanding more resources entered a crucial stage, with demonstrations spreading across the country and unions preparing to join the action.

At the Hélène Boucher high school in Paris' 20th district, protesters placed rubbish bins and bicycles across the entrance to form a makeshift barricade. Parents and other adults stood between the protesters and police officers who were monitoring the situation.

The school was among hundreds that were closed across France. Authorities began closing schools last week in an attempt to reduce the protests after widespread damage to school buildings and a growing number of injuries among students, staff and police.

French media reported protests in several other cities and towns on Tuesday morning. Labor unions also called on workers to demonstrate later in the day in support of the high school students, increasing pressure on President Emmanuel Macron's government.

The government has responded with a major police operation. More than 5,000 people were arrested last week, with about 85% of them minors. However, the use of arrests, tear gas and riot-control weapons against teenage protesters has increased anger among students, parents and teachers.

The school blockades and protests began in the Paris region in mid-September before spreading to towns and cities across France. Students have raised several complaints, mainly about a lack of resources and limited opportunities in disadvantaged schools.

They have also highlighted poor conditions in some schools, including classrooms without enough desks and chairs, buildings that become extremely hot during summer, and schools affected by rats.

Students have also complained about a shortage of teachers and other staff, as well as heavy workloads. French high school students spend more compulsory hours in school than students in many other European countries.

The movement has also drawn attention to concerns about inequality in the education system, despite France's national motto of "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity."