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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

YPL's Brian Jacob has partnered with colleagues at U-M (Elyse Thulin and Justin Heinze) & other national researchers to better understand school cellphone policies. Read the highlights of their research to-date & the questions that the research teams are exploring: research.umich.edu/research-sto...

Brian Jacob quote: What is really important, in both the national and state studies, is to get as much information as possible from the very diverse populations we are working with. We need to understand why certain districts are choosing certain policies and if they are having their intended effect. We also want to see how schools react to the new law — are they simply updating existing policies or adopting new ones?

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 01/10/2026

How should Michigan schools restrict student cellphone use—and which approaches work best for students, teachers and families? Hear from YPL Co-Director Brian Jacob and Justin Heinze about the latest research on school cellphone policies here in the state. www.youtube.com/watch?v=3y0J...

youtube.com

Put your phone away, but where? How U-M is testing which cellphone rules work in Michigan schools

YouTube video by University of Michigan

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Let's connect at SREE! Robin Jacob, Catherine Asher, and Megan Jagolinzer will be sharing findings about YPL's research on school-based mental health supports, high-dosage tutoring, and chronic absenteeism. #SREE2026 #YouthPolicyLab

Robin Jacob, Catherine Asher, and Megan Jagolinzer will be sharing findings about YPL's research on school-based mental health supports, high-dosage tutoring, and chronic absenteeism.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

Spotlight on Youth Policy Lab's career & technical education (CTE) work: our research & analysis informed CTE policy & program decisions in Washtenaw County. That's what we're about → engaging in research that makes a real difference for youth & families! looktomichigan.umich.edu/stories/cte-...

looktomichigan.umich.edu

U-M research helps expand access to career and technical education - Look to Michigan

More than 46,000 students in Washtenaw County, Michigan, will begin having greater access to career and technical education during the 2026–27 school year as a…

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Our FY25-26 annual report has all the highlights of research on school cellphone policies, intensive tutoring, child welfare, early elementary instruction, chronic absenteeism, adolescent mental health, career and technical education, and more youthpolicylab.umich.edu/youth-policy...

Youth Policy Lab fiscal year 2025-2026 annual report cover image.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 03/09/2026

"I think we're still at the very beginning stages of figuring out exactly what type of restrictions implemented in what way will be most effective." Brian Jacob spoke to the Heartlander News about school cellphone policy research in light of Kansas City’s new bell-to-bell ban. myumi.ch/4xQ6A

myumi.ch

Bell-to-bell cell bans may not show significant changes in the numbers, but clear classroom improvements are evident - Heartlander News

Studies of American schools with bell-to-bell cellphone bans – which include schools in Missouri and Kansas – may not reveal an immediate improvement in quantitative areas such as standardized test sc...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 26/08/2026

Brian Jacob offers his insights to help Michigan’s education administrators make informed decisions regarding the trade-offs of different approaches for school cellphone policies.. www.the74million.org/article/with...

Brian Jacob speaking during the national cellphone policy conference.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 20/08/2026

Classes are starting soon and the new Michigan law restricting cellphone use in schools is going into effect. As districts determine how to respond to the new guidelines, Brian Jacob talked with the Detroit News and shared insights from his related research. www.detroitnews.com/story/news/l...

Quote from Brian Jacob: Researchers aren't yet sure why, but so far, banning phones has not yet led to increased academic performance. It likely needs to be paired with other initiatives to see that impact.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

“Talk data to me”. This was the motto of this year’s ASPIRE cohort. During their final presentations, they made the case for why schools need to view attendance, discipline, counseling referrals, and other factors as signals of something deeper in students' lives. myumi.ch/9JgrW

youthpolicylab.umich.edu

“Talk data to me”: ASPIRE fellows explore youth mental health, school trust, and pathways into policy research

The 2026 Applied Social Policy Internship and Research Experience brought students from Spelman College and Morehouse College to the University of Michigan for hands-on training in applied social poli...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 31/07/2026

One week ago, ASPIRE 2026 students from Morehouse and Spelman shared their research with confidence, insight, and clarity. Mentors, Ford School and Youth Policy Lab faculty/staff, speakers, supporters, friends, and family joined to celebrate their hard work!

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 29/07/2026

Coming up this week! Brian Jacob and colleagues will share their research on smartphone restrictions in schools at the National Bureau of Economic Research Summer Institute. It will be an engaging discussion led by Brian. Read the paper: conference.nber.org/conf_papers/...

conference.nber.org

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 23/07/2026

It's been a summer of learning, growth, and celebrations! 🎉☀️🎂 Joasia Jacobs, Olivia Liddie, Chavous Langhorn, and Vincent Patterson all had birthdays during the ASPIRE program this summer. We’re grateful to share these special moments together and wish them all the best in the year ahead! #ASPIRE

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 17/07/2026

Did you catch our video a couple days ago? Joasia Jacobs has also captured her experience in the ASPIRE summer program. Follow along as she shows a typical day here at the University of Michigan. #DITL #ASPIRE

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 15/07/2026

Wonder about a day in the life of an ASPIRE student? Join Spelman College student Olivia Liddie as she takes us on a journey from the dorm to the classroom to the Big House! #ASPIRE #DITL youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 14/07/2026

Welcome, Vanya Funez! Vanya is joining the data team at YPL. Vanya is a recent graduate of Williams College and a participant in the @umisr.bsky.social Junior Professional Researcher program. Learn more: isr.umich.edu/training-opp...

Vanya Funez is joining the Youth Policy Lab as a Junior Professional Researcher.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

Thanks to the inspiring speakers that have shared their stories, insights, and experiences with the ASPIRE cohort. Through meaningful small-group discussions, the students have gained clarity and found opportunities for reflection as they consider the many paths available to them after college.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 25/06/2026

The ASPIRE cohort traded laptops for tongs & spent an evening volunteering with Ronald McDonald House Charities Ann Arbor at a family cookout. It's a great opportunity to support an organization that provides comfort, care, & a sense of home for families navigating difficult times. #ASPIRE #service

Group photo of the ASPIRE 2026 students at the volunteer event

students serving the residents of the Ronald McDonald House of Ann Arbor

Group photo of the ASPIRE students and Youth Policy Lab staff

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 24/06/2026

Youth Policy Lab partnered with Detroit Future City on a report on preparing Detroit's youth for jobs of the future. The analysis informed the roadmap for action, with roles for schools, employers, workforce organizations, nonprofits, & youth-serving institutions. www.dbusiness.com/hustle-and-m...

dbusiness.com

Report: Detroit Youth Need Stronger Education-to-career Pathways

A new report from Detroit Future City and The Skillman Foundation outlines strategies to expand career-connected learning, strengthen workforce readiness, and improve long-term economic opportunity fo...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 17/06/2026

The ASPIRE students do more than work hard in the classroom - they also have the chance to get out and explore Ann Arbor and Detroit. Check out some photos from a recent Detroit Tigers game and a visit to the Big House! #ASPIRE Learn more: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire

ASPIRe 2026 students and mentors at the Detroit Tigers game

ASPIRE students at the Michigan Stadium football field

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 12/06/2026

The 2026 ASPIRE cohort is settling in at the University of Michigan! We were pleased to welcome these six students from Morehouse College and Spelman College and look forward to all that is to come over the next few weeks. Learn more: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 26/05/2026

Don't miss the latest from YPL! 📰 Our newest newsletter is out now, featuring recent research updates, program news, media mentions, and staff highlights. You can read the full issue on our website — and be sure to subscribe so you’re first to know next time! mailchi.mp/118b9c8410eb...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 20/05/2026

YPL was proud to partner with Detroit Future City as the research partner on a new report focused on preparing Detroit youth for jobs of the future. Check out the report and learn how we can equip young Detroiters to succeed in a changing economy: myumi.ch/11mpy

Cover page of the new Detroit Future City report on Career-Connected Learning.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 19/05/2026

YPL Policy Fellowship in Action! Sam Owusu co-led a session at the Michigan Head Start Association Spring Assembly on enhancing partnerships in early childhood with colleagues from the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential and Early Childhood Investment Corporation.

Sam Owusu presenting at the Michigan Head Start Association Spring Assembly

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 14/05/2026

In a recent New York Times article, Brian Jacob offered his insight about the end of the No Child Left Behind law and its relevancy for recent test score declines. Read the article: www.nytimes.com/2026/05/13/u...

nytimes.com

Why U.S. Test Scores Are in a ‘Generation-Long Decline’

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 14/05/2026

New Report! A research team led by researchers at @um-ypl.bsky.social y.social & @umichsph.bsky.social explored Michigan school cellphone policies. Key finding: Nearly all districts have a cellphone policy in place, but they differ in how & when they restrict cellphone use. myumi.ch/Z8kRy

myumi.ch

Michigan School Cellphone Policy Study: Landscape Analysis

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 12/05/2026

Dimitri Przeslawski shared the highlights of his experience as a Policy Fellow with the Michigan Department of Lifelong Education, Advancement, and Potential. youthpolicylab.umich.edu/research/fel...

youthpolicylab.umich.edu

Fellowship Spotlight: Advancing Postsecondary Education for Adult Learners in Michigan

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 06/05/2026

🔈Robin Jacob will be speaking this week at the National Student Support Accelerator (NSSA) 2026 Conference. If you're there, be sure to catch her talk about the effects of in-person and virtual literacy tutoring for elementary students. #tutoring

Robin Jacob will present at the NSSA 2026 conference at Stanford University on May 6, 2026

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 04/05/2026

@nytimes.com: Brian Jacob and other leading researchers share findings on the impact of school cell phone restrictions, focusing on the use of lockable phone pouches. www.nytimes.com/2026/05/04/u... NBER Working Paper: tom-dee.github.io/files/w35132... About the research: myumi.ch/Mpw5W

nytimes.com

Did School Cellphone Bans Work? New Study Finds Mixed Results.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

Dr. Robin Jacob and Dr. Catherine Asher spoke before the Michigan House Education and Workforce Committee on April 29th about the potential of high dosage tutoring to improve early literacy skills. Check out the recording (starting at 54:44) house.mi.gov/VideoArchive...

Catherine Asher and Robin Jacob at the Michigan state capital

screenshot of Robin Jacob and Catherine Asher during the presentation at the Michigan House education and Workforce committee meeting

Robin and Catherine talking to Michigan House representatives

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 29/04/2026

We are pleased to share the results of our study of TRAILS, a program designed to enhance social & behavioral outcomes in students affected by mental illness by providing supportive services in schools, where youth are more likely to access them. youthpolicylab.umich.edu/research/rep...

youthpolicylab.umich.edu

Impact of a School-Based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program on Student Mental Health and Academic Outcomes: Findings from a Randomized Controlled Trial

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Reposted by Youth Policy Lab

Institute for Social Research (ISR) - University of Michigan @umisr.bsky.social · 23/04/2026

Congratulations to ISR faculty Joanne Hsu and Robin Jacob on being recognized with University of Michigan research awards! Their contributions highlight the impact of ISR research and mentorship. Read more about faculty members recognized with research awards: myumi.ch/pVXAy

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Reposted by Youth Policy Lab

University of Michigan Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy @fordschool.bsky.social · 21/04/2026

The debate over cell phones in schools is more than "on or off." 📵 @um-ypl.bsky.social recently convened experts to find what actually works. With two new studies, they’re diving into how policies impact safety, equity, and success. Details: myumi.ch/dgGrR #EdPolicy #CellPhoneBan

Graphic with a quote from YPL co-director Brian Jacob which reads: “The key issue is no longer simply whether schools should restrict phones, but which restrictions are most effective for different student and school contexts, how to implement them well, and what unintended effects may follow.”

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 23/04/2026

🎉Kudos to Robin Jacob! She has been awarded the University of Michigan Research Faculty Mentor Award, for her consistent commitment to providing guidance and fostering academic and career growth for other faculty members and students. myumi.ch/8qp3Z

Robin Jacob wins the research faculty mentor award at the University of Michigan

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 16/04/2026

The ASPIRE 2026 cohort: Donovan Correll, Toni Flemming, Joasia Jacobs, Chavous Langhorn, Olivia Liddie, & Vincent Patterson will join us from Spellman College & Morehouse College to advance their quantitative social science research skills & gain a greater understanding about public policy careers.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 15/04/2026

YPL is excited to welcome three new research assistants to our team: Dave Kobel, Yaqing Nan, and Avery Northrop! These U-M students will support research on school cell phone policies and early elementary math quality guidelines. Want to work with YPL as an RA? myumi.ch/dgGNZ (UM students only)

New Youth Policy Lab research Assistants: Dave Kobel, Yaqing Nan, and Avery Northrop.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 27/03/2026

YPL's team took a close look at an important question in Michigan's Maternal Infant Health Program (MIHP): what needs are families expressing when they request an extension of services for children up to 36 months & how do MIHP providers meet those needs? youthpolicylab.umich.edu/research/rep...

youthpolicylab.umich.edu

Exploring the Expansion of Home Visiting Services to Infant Beneficiaries Aged 18 to 36 Months: A Landscape Analysis of Maternal Infant Health Program

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 23/03/2026

YPL Research Assistant Rukmini Nallamothu did a fantastic job presenting a research poster on Michigan school cellphone policies on behalf of YPL at the 2026 University of Michigan Injury Prevention Research Symposium!

A research poster on Michigan school cellphone policies at the 2026 University of Michigan Injury Prevention Research Symposium!

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 03/03/2026

Brian Jacob worked with Angela Duckworth and other leading researchers for the first national study of school cell phone policies. School cell phone bans have increased and classroom usage has dropped but students are increasingly using laptops for non-academic purposes. myumi.ch/kPAqM

myumi.ch

First-of-its-kind national educator survey reveals both promise and peril in school cell phone policies

Teachers report more face-to-face interaction as bell-to-bell bans spread, but laptops emerge as next challenge. Over 68,000 teachers surveyed to date; data collection to continue through end of schoo...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 26/02/2026

If you didn't get today's YPL newsletter in your inbox, you're missing the latest news about our research, programs, media highlights, and staff updates. You can still read it on our website and subscribe so you don't miss the next one! myumi.ch/G2nR4

myumi.ch

Youth Policy Lab Newsletter

To sign up, please fill out the following form #mc_embed_signup { background: #fff; clear: left; font: 14px Nunito Sans, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; width: 700px; padding: 20px; /* Provides space ar...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 18/02/2026

Morehouse and Spelman College students: Attend this week's career fairs on campus and learn about the ASPIRE summer program at he University of Michigan! Apply before March 9: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 12/02/2026

Spelman College and Morehouse College students - curious about ASPIRE? Join us tomorrow for an online information session. RSVP: myumi.ch/D8VG6 Learn more and apply: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire #YouthPolicyLab #ASPIRE

ASPIRE information sessions will be held virtually on 02.13.2026 and 02.24.2026 at 12 PM EST. RSVP following the links in the post.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 04/02/2026

We are delighted to welcome new student research assistants to the YPL team! They will contribute by conducting interviews, collecting and analyzing data, & developing reports. If you are a current UM student & interested in future RA positions, fill out our RA interest form: myumi.ch/79EG2

Photo collage of new YPL research assistants: Giuliana, Alice, Hien, Summit, and Erika.

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 30/01/2026

YPL's research, led by @catherineasher.bsky.social about the impact of intensive, small-group literacy tutoring was referenced in this article in @nytimes.com. www.nytimes.com/2026/01/30/u... More about the study: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/research-pro...

nytimes.com

Why Boys Are Behind in Reading at Every Age

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 28/01/2026

Sophomores and juniors at Spelman and Morehouse Colleges: Boost your research skills & explore career paths with the #ASPIRE internship program at U-M! Apply now: youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 16/01/2026

Applications are open for ASPIRE 2026 - due 3/9! ASPIRE is an 8-week summer internship program (6/1 - 7/26) for Spelman and Morehouse sophomores and juniors interested in applied social science research. youthpolicylab.umich.edu/aspire Info Sessions: 2/13 & 2/24 RSVP: myumi.ch/D8VG6 #ASPIRE

youthpolicylab.umich.edu

ASPIRE

ASPIRE (Applied Social Policy Internship and Research Experience) is an eight-week summer internship program for rising college juniors and seniors from Spelman and Morehouse Colleges. Participating s...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 15/01/2026

We love a good data story! Check out this infographic about YPL's evaluation of a high-impact tutoring program for early elementary students in North Carolina. Bottom line: the tutoring program showed positive impacts on students literacy skills! drive.google.com/file/d/1XHi2...

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 07/01/2026

Check out our article in the Maternal and Child Health Journal! Sandra Tang, Robin Jacob, & Megan Foster Friedman examined whether a race/ethnicity match between parents in the MI Maternal Infant Health Program and home visitors is associated with their relationship quality. myumi.ch/xw4Ej

myumi.ch

Exploring the Impact of Race/Ethnicity Match on Relationship Quality: Incorporating Parent and Home Visitor Perspectives

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Youth Policy Lab @um-ypl.bsky.social · 19/12/2025

Happy Holidays from the YPL team! Wishing all the best to our partners and colleagues now and into the new year.

youth policy lab 2025 holiday gathering group photo

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