MIT Economist Says H-1B Program Cripples Schooling for K-12 Kids

 Economist Daron Acemoglu discussed the H-1B visa program's negative influence on the education system in the United States. He argues that this program allows politicians to neglect necessary reforms in K-12 education by relying on imported skilled labor.

1. H-1B and Education:

Acemoglu suggests that the elite’s reliance on the H-1B program leads to a lack of commitment to improving the education of American students, as they believe any skill gaps can be filled by importing foreign talent.

He highlights a significant portion of American students reading below grade level while politicians do not take action to rectify this issue.

2. Response from Other Economists:

Adam Ozimek, a pro-immigration economist, criticized Acemoglu's stance, arguing against the idea that the H-1B program hampers educational improvement for low-achieving students.

Ozimek's solution involves expanding visa programs rather than reevaluating the current system.

3. Immigrant Background:

Acemoglu is an immigrant himself, having moved from Turkey to the United States through the H-1B program, yet he emphasizes the need for a collective commitment to American education while supporting skilled immigration.

4. Wider Economic Context:

Acemoglu’s comments reflect a broader discontent with how politicians have diverted focus from the domestic workforce's educational needs. He stresses that economic prosperity should be built on sustained wage growth and investment in local talent.

5. Critique of Immigration Policies:

Acemoglu's views resonate with other economists, like Angus Deaton, who have acknowledged that globalization and current immigration policies have negatively impacted American workers.

They advocate for a balance between aiding foreign workers while not neglecting the welfare of American citizens.

6. Public Sentiment:

Acemoglu points out that there has been longstanding public concern regarding immigration, which he argues has largely been ignored by mainstream politicians.

Daron Acemoglu raises critical points about the negative impact of the H-1B visa program on American education, arguing for a renewed focus on the development of the domestic workforce. His views have sparked debate among economists regarding the best approach to immigration and education reform amid a changing labor market. 

https://www.breitbart.com/economy/2026/08/19/mit-economist-h1b-program-cripple-schooling-for-american-k12-kids/