Sierra Rivera and her sister, Dahlia, found themselves perplexed when their dad presented them with their grandmother’s handwritten recipe for pumpkin cookies. The cursive letters seemed like an entirely different language to the young girls, who are accustomed to block letters in the digital era. However, stories like theirs prompted lawmakers in California to reintroduce cursive writing into the curriculum, recognizing its value despite modern technological advancements. In 2024, students across California’s elementary schools will once again learn the art of cursive writing.
Assemblywoman Sharon Quirk-Silva, a former schoolteacher, proposed the bill requiring cursive instruction in elementary grades, which was signed by Governor Gavin Newsom. This change comes as a response to the diminishing presence of cursive writing in classrooms since the adoption of the Common Core State Standards in 2010. While it was not explicitly included in the standards, some states have been slowly reintroducing cursive instruction. In fact, more than 26 states now require some form of cursive writing to be taught in schools.
The inclusion of cursive in California’s state standards for 3rd and 4th grades did not guarantee consistent enforcement. This left the decision up to individual teachers and districts, resulting in approximately half of the state’s students being taught cursive. Assemblywoman Quirk-Silva emphasized the benefits of cursive handwriting in child brain development, including improved memorization and fine motor skills. She also highlighted the importance of being able to access and understand historical documents, diaries, letters, and family histories, many of which are penned in cursive.
While some may question the relevance of cursive writing in the age of technology, Quirk-Silva emphasized its significance in maintaining a balance between traditional skills and modern advancements. Many private schools still emphasize cursive writing, and Quirk Silva believes all students should have access to historical information by being proficient in reading and writing cursive.
The reintroduction of cursive writing is set to take effect in California elementary schools starting in 2024. This decision has sparked debates among educators and parents alike, with opinions ranging from staunch support to disillusionment with the practicality of cursive writing in the digital age. Nevertheless, the bill’s advocates highlight the unique cognitive benefits and historical importance associated with cursive handwriting.
As the reintroduction of cursive writing into classrooms looms, students like Sierra and Dahlia Rivera will embark on a journey to master a skill that previous generations took for granted. Despite initial confusion and disbelief, Sierra and Dahlia, like many others, will learn the rhythmic flow of cursive letters, connecting words seamlessly on paper. Their pumpkin cookies, baked with their grandmother’s recipe, will serve as a reminder of the beauty and significance of this traditional form of writing. With cursive making a comeback, California aims to strike a balance between the old and the new, preserving a piece of history in the process.
