New Jersey Senate Bill S2712

New Jersey 2024-2025 Regular Session

• Introduced: 2/15/24
• Refer: 2/15/24

Caption

Requires public schools to include instruction on cursive handwriting.

Impact

The proposed legislation is poised to affect educational curriculum standards across the state. By mandating cursive instruction, the bill aims to enhance students' literacy skills and cognitive development. Supporters argue that learning to write in cursive activates various areas of the brain and can contribute positively to overall learning outcomes. Additionally, familiarity with cursive writing is seen as a way to ensure that students can access and interpret historical texts, such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution, which were produced in cursive script.

Summary

Senate Bill 2712 requires public schools in New Jersey to implement age-appropriate instruction on cursive handwriting for students in grades kindergarten through five. The bill stipulates that by the end of third grade, students should be able to read cursive documents and write in cursive proficiently. This requirement seeks to address the decline in cursive writing skills due to increasing reliance on digital communication and keyboarding in education. It highlights the role of cursive writing as a fundamental skill for understanding historical documents and personal expression.

Contention

While the bill has garnered support from various educational stakeholders who recognize the importance of cursive writing, there may be challenges in its implementation. Critics may question the prioritization of cursive writing over other pressing educational needs, particularly in an era dominated by technology where typing skills are increasingly vital. There may also be concerns regarding curriculum changes and the allocation of resources for teacher training and instructional materials necessary to support cursive writing education effectively.