Pennsylvania Mandates Cursive Handwriting in Schools Starting April

Starting April 12, 2024, all public and private schools in Pennsylvania will be required to reintroduce cursive handwriting into their curricula. This new mandate, signed into law by Governor Josh Shapiro in February, aims to enhance students’ writing skills through the inclusion of cursive, joined italics, and printing at appropriate grade levels.

The legislation amends the state’s Public School Code of 1949, ensuring that cursive handwriting becomes a formal part of the writing curriculum for students across the state. The bill received strong bipartisan support in the Pennsylvania General Assembly, passing the House with a vote of 195–8 and the Senate by 42–5 before being signed into law.

Legislative Support and Educational Goals

The bill was sponsored by Senator Wayne Langerholc, who emphasized the cognitive benefits of reintroducing cursive handwriting. In a statement, Langerholc remarked, “By reintegrating cursive into the curriculum, we are investing in our students’ cognitive development, strengthening their legal preparedness, and preserving their connection to historical literacy.”

House sponsor Representative Dane Watro echoed these sentiments, asserting that cursive instruction benefits fine motor development and aids access to historical documents. Watro stated, “Cursive is more than handwriting. It’s a bridge. It connects us to our history, strengthens learning, and deepens our understanding of the world.”

The push to restore cursive comes in the wake of the Common Core Standards established in 2010, which did not include cursive handwriting, focusing instead on print handwriting and keyboarding skills. Despite this, more than half of U.S. states still require or encourage cursive instruction in classrooms, according to a report by Education Week.

Research and Implementation Challenges

Neuroscience research indicates that handwriting, especially cursive, activates broader brain networks related to language, memory, attention, and motor planning. This suggests that cursive may support deeper learning and enhance memory retention. Other studies reveal that practicing cursive improves writing fluency, speed, fine motor coordination, and spelling accuracy. Nevertheless, experts caution that most current research discusses handwriting in general rather than specifically addressing cursive.

As Pennsylvania prepares for this transition, the state’s Department of Education is developing official guidance to assist schools in implementing cursive instruction effectively. According to department spokesperson Erin James, this guidance will outline practical steps and expectations for schools, helping educators adjust schedules and lesson plans. Recommendations may also encompass professional development and curriculum materials aimed at supporting effective instruction.

As the April deadline approaches, the exact methods and timelines for implementing this new law across Pennsylvania remain to be clarified. The anticipated changes are expected to reshape the writing education landscape, connecting students not only to their history but also to essential skills for their future.