A national strike is planned for Tuesday, March 31 to protest against the elimination of 4,000 teaching positions announced for the 2026 school year. This day is part of a week of actions organized from March 30 to April 3 at the request of a national education union coalition.
A national mobilization against job cuts
In a statement released on Friday, March 27, CFDT, FSU, Unsa, CGT, and SUD denounce the government’s budget choices. They particularly criticize job cuts and the lack of salary increases, arguing that these decisions could worsen the situation of a already weakened public service.
Job cuts in the academy
At the local level, the Montpellier academy is directly affected, with the elimination of 148 teaching positions planned for the next school year. In the Hérault department, the preparations for the 2026 school year are taking place in a context of declining student numbers. The primary level should have 92,690 students, down from 94,508 in 2025, which means 1,818 fewer students.
Adjustments in schools
This decrease in the number of students is resulting in adjustments in schools. In total, 20 full-time equivalent positions are being removed in the department. Specifically, 14 classes are set to open while 16 others are expected to close, totaling 30 movements. These changes fuel the concerns of the union organizations, who fear a deterioration in teaching conditions.
Anticipated mobilization in Hérault
The strike on March 31 is expected to be followed in Hérault. Several municipalities, including Montpellier, Frontignan, or Lunel, have already informed families about possible disruptions in schools.
Parents are therefore encouraged to plan ahead, due to expected teacher absences and potential difficulties in accommodating students.
Week of actions announced
Beyond the day of March 31, the union organizations intend to maintain pressure throughout the week. They aim to raise awareness about the consequences of budget decisions on the functioning of the education system.
This national mobilization could lead to additional actions in the following days, amidst ongoing tensions surrounding the allocated resources for national education.
