Paris – 25.06.2026: In light of the current heatwave in France, Education Minister Édouard Geffray has defended the decision to keep schools open and to hold the upcoming examinations. In an interview with the show “Les 4V” on France 2 on June 25, Geffray explained that school closure measures are regulated regionally to ensure the safety of students and staff.
In particularly heat-stricken regions, numerous schools and colleges have already been closed or have adjusted their schedules. As of June 25, 3,500 schools were completely closed, while almost 10,000 others changed their teaching hours to allow students, for example, to return home earlier during high temperatures. Geffray emphasized that these measures are primarily protective and continue to be taken in coordination with local authorities and school principals.
Despite temperatures in some regions soaring above 38 degrees Celsius, the Education Minister insists on holding the “Diplôme National du Brevet” (DNB) exams, which begin on Friday, June 26. The exams are scheduled to take place in the morning as planned. Schools have been instructed to use the coolest rooms for the exams and to take additional precautions to reduce the burden on the candidates. Around 854,000 students are expected to be registered for the exam this year.
Geffray rejected demands from some unions to cancel classes and exams already at temperatures of 30 degrees. He made it clear that continuing school activities is important as long as safety is ensured. At the same time, he stressed the importance of an individual assessment, with parents and responsible parties deciding whether a child is better off at home or at school.
The minister also emphasized that the situation is being carefully monitored and further adjustments would be made if necessary. The health and well-being of students and school staff are his top priorities. Geffray appealed to the personal responsibility of local authorities and school principals to act flexibly and pragmatically in order to meet the various challenges posed by the heat stress.
In conclusion, he pointed out that despite the difficult weather conditions, education and passing exams remain of great importance for the future of young people. He praised the commitment of teachers and school administrations given the exceptional circumstances.
The current heatwave presents major challenges for France. In addition to educational institutions, other public services are also tasked with coordinating protective measures and responding quickly to health risks.
Sources
- VousNousIls
- Franceinfo