Italian schools are frequently characterized by certain enduring stereotypes, particularly among outsiders and even within the Italian population. Among the most common according to a student from a university in Reggio Emilia, Italy is the belief that Italian students are “not good at math.” Whether rooted in standardized test scores or anecdotal evidence, this stereotype reduces a diverse student population to a single academic deficiency.

Additionally, there is a common misconception that many Italian students dislike school or view it as an unremarkable part of life, rather than a unique opportunity. This is compounded by claims that students don’t feel education is “special” or particularly empowering, possibly due to systemic underfunding, especially in Southern Italy. Outdated facilities and a rigid curriculum contributed to a general sense of apathy among some students.