Strategic Data Project Convening 2026

Fuel up for the day ahead! Join us for a light breakfast and casual networking before we dive into Convening.

This is your chance to connect with peers, grab a coffee, and get energized for an exciting day of learning and collaboration.

Kick off SDP Convening 2026 with a welcome from SDP’s Senior Director, Miriam Greenberg.

As we dive into this year’s theme—"Proof Positive?"—we’ll set the stage for two days of thought-provoking discussions, collaboration, and action.

Get ready to explore how we turn insights into impact and navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Welcome to Cambridge and to SDP Convening 2026!

Research has shown that cell phone use by youth and teens can lead to distractions, cyberbullying, and poor mental health. The national conversation has shifted to taking away students’ phones during the school day as a solution to these challenges. But is it enough? We bring together researchers and state and district perspectives about how cell phone bans have proof of improving students’ wellbeing, what questions we should be asking, and what it looks like to make these policies possible.

Join us for lunch to connect with peers and new colleagues. 

There is no formal programming during lunch.

How can academic research “meet the moment” in a time when school-related crises dominate the headlines, and how do we turn data into real action for students?

In this keynote, Prof. Matt Kraft (Brown University) will explore how evidence can help us better understand what is happening in schools today and guide more effective responses. He will highlight where we have strong proof about what works, as well as the critical questions where evidence is still limited and more research is urgently needed.

Topics will include teacher shortages, COVID recovery and tutoring, climate and environmental pressures on schools, school gun violence, inequitable access to learning time, and related challenges facing educators and systems now.

Join us as we kick off Convening with an evening of connection, celebration, and inspiration!

We'll enjoy a plated dinner, reflect on the impact of our shared work, and honor this year’s Strategic Data Excellence Award winner—celebrating powerful, behind-the-scenes data efforts that create real change.

Plus, don’t miss a one-of-a-kind performance by local students from the A Tribe Called Black peer support youth group!