The Kansas State Board of Education today (TUE) made a strong statement telling school districts they should teach cursive writing. The recommended grade school standards say the board “expects” districts to teach cursive. Board member Janet Waugh, from Kansas City, Kansas, says her constituents are very interested in the topic.
The board cited research indicating that handwriting skills are connected to cognitive development. However, compliance with board recommendations isn't mandatory or enforceable, so local districts will still have the final decision on whether to teach cursive to their students.
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The Kansas State Board of Education has made a strong statement urging school districts to teach cursive writing. The recommended grade school standards say the board “expects” districts to teach cursive. As KPR’s Stephen Koranda reports, the board voted 10-0 to tell school districts to keep cursive in the classroom.
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The board cited research that indicates handwriting is connected to cognitive development. Board member Janet Waugh, from Kansas City, Kansas, says she understands why schools might cut back on cursive.
“Naturally, because of all the other demands on them, this has taken a back seat, which I’m sorry to hear, but I certainly understand,” says Waugh.
But, she says her constituents are concerned about the issue.
“I’ve received many calls, many emails regarding the importance of cursive writing, and frankly, the lack of it in many districts,” says Waugh.
One person who spoke during an open forum summed it up by saying “the pen is mightier than the keyboard.” But it’s not mandatory that schools comply with the recommendation. Districts will still have the final say on whether they teach cursive.