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 legal language mandates that students develop skills necessary for legible cursive writing, including letter formation, proper spacing, and practice in writing complete words and sentences. Additionally, 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 emphasizes the importance of cursive writing as part of the educational curriculum and encourages the State Board of Education to adopt standards and assessments related to these requirements. The effective date for this act is set for July 1, 2025.