Enhancing Education: The Immigrant Effect in U.S. Schools

Published June 27, 2025

Contrary to common assumptions that immigrant students may strain classroom resources or hinder learning, data shows that classrooms with more immigrant students tend to see improved academic performance among native-born peers. The presence of immigrant students contributes to stronger educational outcomes by fostering a culture of academic engagement. The findings challenge prevailing narratives around immigration and education policy, and highlight how peer dynamics can shape long-term opportunity for every student.

Check out more from Paola Sapienza:

  • Read "Immigration Meets Prosperity" interview with Paola Sapienza here.
  • Listen to the Economics, Applied podcast with Paola Sapienza here.
  • Read "Measuring Environmental Externalities" by Paola Sapienza here.

Learn more about Hoover Senior Fellow Paola Sapienza here.

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The opinions expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Hoover Institution or Stanford University.

© 2025 by the Board of Trustees of Leland Stanford Junior University.

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Paola Sapienza

Paola Sapienza

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