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An Olympic opportunity

Author

Listed:
  • Christos Genakos
  • Eleni Kyrkopoulou
  • Elias Papaioannou

Abstract

We use a unique natural experiment in which families were randomly selected to live in the Olympic Village, constructed for the 2004 Athens Olympic Games, to assess the impact of improved neighbourhood conditions on academic achievement. Comparing 12-17-year-old students who relocated and attended the new schools with non-selected applicants from the same origin schools across Attica, we find a positive, gender-neutral, and significant effect of moving on overall performance. Educational gains, primarily in language courses, are concentrated among students who previously performed poorly, indicating a "fresh start" effect.

Suggested Citation

  • Christos Genakos & Eleni Kyrkopoulou & Elias Papaioannou, 2026. "An Olympic opportunity," CEP Discussion Papers dp2175, Centre for Economic Performance, LSE.
    • Handle: RePEc:cep:cepdps:dp2175
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    References listed on IDEAS

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