The bill amends section 1003.42 of the Florida Statutes to require public schools to provide instruction in cursive writing for students in grades 2 through 5. This instruction must include the development of skills necessary for legible cursive writing, such as letter formation, proper spacing and alignment, and practice in writing complete words and sentences. By the end of grade 5, students are required to demonstrate proficiency in cursive writing, which is defined in the bill to include the ability to write both uppercase and lowercase letters, write words and sentences legibly, and apply cursive writing in a way that supports literacy development.
Additionally, the bill encourages the State Board of Education to adopt standards and pursue assessments related to these requirements. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.