Signed, Sealed, Delivered: Why New Jersey is Bringing Cursive Back to Every Classroom

The Return of the Loop: New Jersey Schools Set to Make Cursive Mandatory Again

the staff of the Ridgewood blog

Ridgewood NJ, in an era dominated by touchscreens and AI, New Jersey is taking a “retro” leap forward. A bill requiring elementary school students to master the art of cursive handwriting has officially reached the Governor’s desk after sweeping through the legislature with overwhelming bipartisan support.

If signed, the new law will bring the “curly letters” back to classrooms for grades 3 through 5 starting in the next school year.

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Why the Pen is Mightier Than the Keyboard

Back in 2010, cursive was largely pushed out of American schools as the Common Core Standards pivoted toward digital literacy and keyboarding. However, educators and lawmakers now argue that something vital was lost in the transition.

“There are times when you preserve things that are no longer in standards that you feel are still important,” said Anthony Scotto, Curriculum Director for the Hamilton School District. “I think cursive is an example of that.”

The Benefits of Cursive Instruction:

• Cognitive Development: Studies show that writing by hand stimulates brain regions that typing does not, aiding in memory and reading acquisition.

• Historical Literacy: Without cursive skills, future generations may struggle to read original historical documents, such as the Declaration of Independence or family heirlooms.

• Personal Identity: Developing a unique signature remains a key part of adult life and legal documentation.

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Overwhelming Support in Trenton

The bill’s journey through the State House was a rare display of total unity. The New Jersey Senate and Assembly passed the measure with a staggering combined vote of 112-1.

While some districts, like Hamilton Township, never stopped teaching the script, the new mandate ensures that every student in the Garden State—regardless of zip code—will have the same “old school” advantage.

What Parents Need to Know

• Target Grades: The mandate focuses on students in the 3rd, 4th, and 5th grades.

• Timeline: If Governor Murphy signs the bill this winter, the curriculum will be updated in time for the September 2026 school year.

• Digital Balance: The bill does not replace keyboarding; rather, it seeks to balance tech skills with traditional handwriting.

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