Back in the old days, penmanship was as much a part of back-to-school as ABCs.
Who doesn't remember the endless hours spent painstakingly working on the Palmer method, with teachers gently demonstrating the perfect cursive?
In today's computer-oriented society, when students load backpacks with laptops and iPods, penmanship often takes a backseat -- and some students think "cursive," is, well, a dirty word.
With an eye toward focusing on the basics at the Riverhead Central School district, a new program was adopted Tuesday at the board of education meeting. Riverhead Superintendent Nancy Carney said the new, district-wide grammar program will focus on improving students' writing.
A committee was formed to help choose the program; Board of Education President Ann Cotten-DeGrasse said 'The Fundamentals of Grammar & Conventions" was an excellent choice and will spotlight cursive handwrighting.
The program will be implemented in grades K through 8 and will commence in the 2012-2013 school year.
"It's interesting to see we've come full circle," said BOE member Amelia Lantz. She added, smiling, "Maybe before my child graduates, I'll be able to read her handwriting."
Do you remember learning cursive handwriting in school? Are you glad teachers will be focusing on handwriting and grammar? Tell us how you feel in the comments section.
