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LD 78

An Act To Require Elementary School Students To Learn Cursive Writing

132nd Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Joseph Underwood

Maine requires elementary schools to teach cursive writing, prioritizing penmanship instruction in crowded curricula with unclear modern practical application.

Died in Possession of the Senate when the Legislature adjourned Sine Die and was PLACED IN THE LEGISLATIVE FILES. (DEAD)
#curriculum #cursivewriting #schoolprograms
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Bill Summary · LD 78

Legislative bill overview

LD 78 requires Maine elementary school students to learn cursive writing as part of their curriculum. The bill mandates instruction in this penmanship skill, which has been increasingly absent from modern public education as schools prioritize keyboarding and digital literacy.

Why is this important

Cursive instruction affects educational priorities and resource allocation in schools. This debate reflects broader questions about which foundational skills merit classroom time in an era of digital communication and standardized testing pressures.

Potential points of contention

  • Curriculum crowding: Elementary schools already face packed curricula; adding cursive requirements may displace instruction in other subjects like STEM, financial literacy, or social-emotional learning
  • Practical utility debate: Critics argue cursive has limited real-world application in modern work and communication, while proponents claim it supports fine motor development and reading historical documents
  • Implementation costs: Training teachers and developing curricula to meet new standards may require additional state funding during budget constraints

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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