Cursive Now Required In Illinois Schools

SPRINGFIELD, IL — In an age where many kids start using computer keyboards and touchscreen tablets even they start school, students will again be required to learn what some feared might become a lost art. The Illinois Senate on Wednesday voted 42-12 to override Gov. Bruce Rauner's veto on a bill requiring local school districts to teach cursive writing to students.

In September, Rauner vetoed the measure, which requires elementary school students to have at least one unit covering cursive before they finish fifth grade.

The governor called the measure "yet another unfunded mandate for school districts that will not protect the health or safety of Illinois students," adding, "If the General Assembly believes that cursive writing instruction should be required in elementary schools because it will improve student outcomes, it should be included in the Illinois State Learning Standards and funded accordingly."

Supporters of the bill have argued that even in the digital age, cursive is an important skill for students.

"Practical benefits, including writing a check, developing a motor skill and even interpreting historical documents like our Constitution, all require using and understanding cursive writing," bill sponsor Sen. Kimberly Lightford (D-Maywood) said.

In the General Assembly, the bill passed the Senate with a veto-proof majority of 41-15 but was approved more narrowly by the House, which voted 62-38 in favor of the proposal in April.

Prior to Wednesday's Senate vote, the House voted 77-36 to override the governor's veto last month.

The law will take effect on July 1, 2018. It will be up to local school districts to determine at what grade or level students are offered a cursive writing unit as long as it happens before they complete fifth grade.

Photo: AP Photo/Mary Altaffer