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.

__________

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.

Cast

Paola Sapienza

Paola Sapienza

Related

Event

Geography, Technology, and the Extent of Markets: A Method with an Application to the Wealth of Nations

With Stephen Haber, Hoover Institution Park L. Loughlin Senior Fellow and Jordan Horrillo, Hoover Institution Fellow

April 23, 2026

Podcasts

The Education Exchange: “1619 Project” Creator Failed To Use Power And Privilege To Promote Choice

Steven Wilson, a Senior Fellow at the Pioneer Institute for Public Policy Research, joins Hoover Institution fellow Paul E. Peterson to discuss Nikole Hannah-Jones’ recent essay, in which she wrestles with her decision to send her daughter to an underperforming public school.

October 5, 2026

Articles

A New Documentary Film Chronicling The Life And Legacy Of Rod Paige

On Monday, World Teachers’ Day, friends and relatives of the late Rod Paige released the trailer for a forthcoming film about his remarkable life and career. Titled Paragraphs of a Paige, the appetite-whetting trailer can be viewed here. 

October 8, 2026