The United States is a nation of immigrants. Rates of immigration have varied substantially over periods of our history, as have the countries and cultures from which these immigrants originate. Recently the U.S. has been experiencing a period of high immigration. Immigrant children are of particular interest, since they may have special needs that must be addressed through the education system. Differences by Age.
Older children are more likely than younger children to be foreign born.
Differences by Race and Ethnicity. In 1980, less than two percent of whites, blacks and Native Americans were foreign born, compared to 40.0 percent of Asians and 14.0 percent of Hispanics. Includes both immigrants and illegal aliens. Includes both immigrants and illegal aliens.