Students block school entrance

Students from Marie-Curie high school in Strasbourg tried to block the school when classes started on Monday, November 2. They set up the blockade even though the school administration opposed it.

Police arrive and issue warnings

At 7:53 a.m., police arrived with five vehicles and checked the identities of about thirty students and a few teachers at the school entrance. A police officer used a megaphone to say that gatherings in front of high schools are not allowed and that people could be fined 135 euros.

New decree restricts school gatherings

The police referenced a decree from the Bas-Rhin prefecture issued on October 31. This decree bans gatherings near high schools and the use of equipment meant to stop public authorities from maintaining order. Similar rules were put in place for other schools in the area.

Unclear if fines were issued

At the time of writing, the Bas-Rhin prefecture could not confirm whether any fines were given or if the police only issued warnings. Students were frustrated, with one saying the authorities were now using money to stop their movement.

Students confused and discouraged

Some students said they had not heard about the new decree. One noted that the 135 euro fine would stop people from participating in blockades, adding that they were just children. The school principal asked students to enter through a different gate, but many were upset.

Students eventually return to class

By around 8:30 a.m., most students went to class. One student said they did not want to risk a fine and an unjustified absence from school, showing they were disappointed with how the situation turned out.