Education - Public Schools - Instruction in Print and Cursive Handwriting
Impact
The introduction of HB 827 is poised to influence the curriculum of public elementary schools across Maryland significantly. If enacted, the bill will affect educational standards at an early age, with the expectation that students achieve proficiency in handwriting within specified grades. Supporters of the bill argue that reinforcing handwriting instruction is essential for cognitive development and improves students' ability to communicate effectively. However, it may require schools to allocate additional time and resources to implement these changes adequately.
Summary
House Bill 827, titled 'Education - Public Schools - Instruction in Print and Cursive Handwriting', aims to mandate that each county board of education requires public elementary schools to provide instruction in both print and cursive handwriting. The bill specifies that students should develop legible print handwriting by the end of the third grade and legible cursive handwriting by the end of the fifth grade. This requirement is set to begin in the 2023-2024 school year, with the intent to enhance handwriting skills among students in Maryland.
Contention
While proponents advocate for the return of handwriting instruction as an essential skill, detractors may raise concerns regarding the allocation of limited classroom time. With the increasing emphasis on technology and digital literacy in education, some may argue that dedicating time to handwriting instruction diverts attention from other essential literacy skills and subjects. The debate surrounding HB 827 focuses on balancing traditional educational practices with modern pedagogical approaches to learning.