The next French revolution could dethrone（废黜，罢免） homework. French President François Hollande vowed¹ to end homework on Tuesday, but his rationale does not involve improving "la bonne vie" for France's children.

 

Socialist² Hollande worries that privileged children benefit from parental³ assistance on take-home assignments and that disadvantaged children do not.

 

"An education program is, by definition, a societal program. Work should be done at school, rather than at home," Hollande said at La Sorbonne in Paris last week.

 

Although students will likely celebrate the axing of homework, they might lament⁴（哀悼，悲叹） Hollande's plan extend the school week from four days to 4 ½ days. Schools will dismiss children earlier than they already do most days and after lunchtime on the extra day, but the planned schedule is not without criticism.

 

"It's completely unrealistic," said Valerie Marty, president of the national parents' organization.

 

Despite their short weeks and long summer vacations, French students currently spend more time in the classroom than many other nations. A French school day typically lasts from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

 

Notwithstanding their annual average of 847 school hours, France ranks below most nearby European countries, as well as the United States, on international tests, according to The Associated Press. This has prompted a desire for restructuring.

 

Hollande's extensive education reform plans include increasing financial aid while combating truancy⁵. He also intends to provide incentives⁶ for teachers in difficult area, according to France 24.

 

Hollande's predecessor⁷, Nicolas Sarkozy, cut tens of thousands of teaching jobs. Hollande promised to employ around 60,000 in the next five years.

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