In a surprising twist reminiscent of 90s fashion comebacks, cursive handwriting is making a resurgence in elementary schools across the United States. Texas has recently become the latest state to reintegrate this elegant form of writing into its curriculum. Starting in the 2019-2020 academic year, second graders in Texas will begin to learn cursive, and by third grade, they will be expected to express their thoughts in complete words using this style, ensuring proper spacing between words. Instruction will continue through the fifth grade, with fourth graders required to complete assignments using cursive writing.
This revival is fueled by scientific research linking handwriting to enhanced memory and cognitive development. Texas joins 17 other states, including Alabama, Louisiana, Arkansas, Virginia, California, and North Carolina, in prioritizing cursive in their educational programs. As Katrina Mitchell from the curriculum provider Learning Without Tears explained, “Research indicates that handwritten notes can boost brain activity tied to thinking, language, and working memory, aiding in better recall.”
Once upon a time—before the tech boom and the arrival of digital devices—cursive was a staple of elementary education. For those over thirty, it’s likely you spent countless hours perfecting your loops and curls on lined paper. However, in recent decades, cursive has been sidelined, often dismissed as an outdated skill due to budget cuts and shifting educational priorities.
Opinions on the reintroduction of cursive are mixed. Many support the decision, arguing that it should never have been removed from the curriculum in the first place. Yet, there are others who believe schools should focus their resources on teaching more modern skills. As this debate continues, it will be interesting to see if additional states follow suit and make cursive a part of their educational focus.
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In summary, the return of cursive writing in elementary education reflects a growing recognition of its benefits for cognitive development, despite ongoing debates about its relevance in modern curricula. The trend is spreading, and it will be fascinating to see how many more states embrace this classic skill.