This 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. The new provisions mandate that students develop skills necessary for legible cursive writing, including letter formation, proper spacing, and practice in writing complete words and sentences. By the end of grade 5, students must demonstrate proficiency in cursive writing, which is defined to include the ability to write both uppercase and lowercase letters, produce legible words and sentences, and apply cursive writing in a way that supports literacy development.
The bill also encourages the State Board of Education to adopt standards and pursue assessments related to these new requirements. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.