Bill > S1394

This bill requires Florida public school students in grades 2 through 5 to receive comprehensive instruction in cursive writing, focusing on developing legible handwriting skills. The instruction will cover specific aspects of cursive writing, including letter formation, proper spacing and alignment, and practicing writing complete words and sentences. By the end of 5th grade, students must demonstrate "proficiency in cursive writing," which is defined as the ability to write both uppercase and lowercase letters in cursive, write legible words and sentences with proper spacing, and use cursive writing to support literacy development by writing essays and assignments according to state academic standards. The State Board of Education is encouraged to develop standards and assessments for this requirement, and the legislation will take effect on July 1, 2025. This bill aims to ensure that students maintain the skill of handwriting in an increasingly digital age, promoting a traditional form of communication and potentially supporting cognitive development through manual writing practice.