Kentucky to Require Cursive Writing in Public Schools Starting 2025Kentucky is officially the newest state to require cursive. Here's what to know

In 2010, Kentucky adopted Common Core standards, which do not require cursive handwriting to be taught. But this will now change, beginning in the 2025-2026 school year.

On April 12th, the KY Senate passed a bill requiring public school students be "proficient" in cursive writing by the end of the 5th grade.

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SB 167 was signed by the governor 5 days later on April 17th, making Kentucky the 24th state to require cursive.

Now, cursive writing will be required starting in the 2025-2026 school year.

We keep an updated list of all states that require cursive. Keep tabs using the link below!

24 States that Require Cursive

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Implications of Cursive Writing Legislation

The recent legislation mandating cursive writing in Kentucky schools carries significant implications for both students and educators. As cursive writing is reintroduced into the curriculum, it aims to enhance fine motor skills and cognitive development in young learners, providing them with a crucial skill that has been largely overlooked in recent years.

In addition to educational benefits, this requirement may also influence teaching methods and resources. Schools may need to invest in new materials and training for teachers to effectively implement cursive writing instruction, fostering a renewed appreciation for this traditional form of writing among both students and educators.

The History of Cursive Writing in Education

Cursive writing has a rich history in American education, once considered an essential skill for students. Understanding its historical context helps to appreciate why its resurgence is significant in today's digital age, where keyboarding often overshadows handwriting.

Historically, cursive was taught as a primary writing style in schools, with students practicing it extensively. The decline in its teaching began with the adoption of standardized testing and the Common Core standards, which shifted focus away from handwriting. This new legislation marks a pivotal return to valuing handwriting skills in the educational system.

Comparison with Other States Requiring Cursive

Kentucky joins a growing list of states that mandate the teaching of cursive writing in public schools. This trend reflects a nationwide recognition of the importance of cursive as a fundamental skill that enhances literacy and personal expression.

States like Texas, California, and Florida have already implemented similar requirements, each with unique approaches and timelines. By comparing these states' strategies and outcomes, Kentucky can learn valuable lessons in effectively integrating cursive writing into its educational framework.

Resources for Teaching Cursive Writing

As schools prepare to implement cursive writing instruction, various resources are available to assist educators and parents. These resources include worksheets, online tutorials, and instructional guides designed to make learning cursive engaging and effective for students.

Additionally, organizations dedicated to handwriting education provide workshops and training sessions for teachers, ensuring they are equipped with the necessary skills to teach cursive effectively. By utilizing these resources, schools can create a supportive environment for students to thrive in their cursive writing journey.