Missouri House Bill HB2773

Missouri 2026 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/7/26

Caption

Requires school districts to provide instruction in cursive writing

Impact

If enacted, HB 2773 would necessitate a curriculum adjustment for school districts, requiring them to integrate cursive writing instruction into their language arts pedagogies. This change may lead to increased funding and resources allocated towards training educators and developing instructional materials aimed at improving cursive writing skills. Additionally, it aligns educational practices with broader aims of enhancing student engagement and proficiency in writing, which is essential for future academic and professional success.

Summary

House Bill 2773 aims to mandate cursive writing instruction in school districts across the state, emphasizing the importance of cursive as a skill that should be taught to students. The bill stems from growing concerns about students' writing capabilities in a digital age where cursive writing has diminished in emphasis within educational curricula. Proponents of the bill argue that cursive writing not only enhances students' fine motor skills but also aids in the development of their cognitive abilities and literacy skills.

Contention

However, the bill has faced notable opposition from various stakeholders in the education sector. Critics argue that with the increasing reliance on technology and changes in communication practices, the requirement for cursive writing instruction may not be relevant anymore. Some educators have expressed concerns that mandating cursive instruction could take valuable classroom time away from other important skills and subjects. The discourse surrounding the bill highlights a broader debate on the relevance of traditional writing methods in contemporary education.