New Jersey Mandates Cursive Writing Instruction in Public Schools

In a significant educational shift, New Jersey has mandated the teaching of cursive writing in public schools for students in grades three through five, starting in the fall of the upcoming school year. This decision was formalized by Governor Phil Murphy, who signed the legislation on January 19, 2026, during his final day in office. The law, designated as S1783/A3865, aims to equip students with essential skills for tasks such as signing checks and reading historical documents, particularly as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.

Cursive writing to be taught in New Jersey schools again under new law

Supporters of the bill, including Assemblywoman Shanique Speight and Senator Angela McKnight, argue that cursive writing is not merely a nostalgic practice but a crucial developmental skill. They emphasize that handwriting engages neural pathways linked to literacy, attention, and memory, thereby enhancing cognitive development. Murphy stated, “We owe it to our students to give them a well-rounded education that ensures they have the tools to fully understand our rich history and become competent leaders.” The New Jersey Department of Education Commissioner, Kevin Dehmer, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of cursive writing in fostering fine motor skills and student confidence.

Governor Murphy Signs Bill Reviving Cursive Writing Instruction in SchoolsGov. Phil Murphy mandates teaching cursive writing in NJ schools as one of his last actsand it will make over 300k Americans do joined-up writingCursive writing to be taught in New Jersey schools again under new lawCursive Writing Is Becoming Mandatory in More Public Schools. Here’s When the New Law Goes into EffectCursive handwriting is back from the dead. N.J. schools now must teach it in grades 3-5.

The decline of cursive instruction in the U.S. began in 2010 with the adoption of the Common Core State Standards, which did not include handwriting as a requirement. Prior to the new law, only 24 states mandated cursive instruction, a stark contrast to the educational landscape 25 to 30 years ago. New Jersey's decision aligns with similar moves in states like California and New Hampshire, which are also reinstating cursive writing in their curricula.

and it will make over 300k Americans do joined-up writing

Despite the support for the bill, there are dissenting voices. Some educational leaders and advocacy groups, including the New Jersey School Boards Association, argue that decisions regarding cursive instruction should be made at the local level. They express concerns about the already crowded curriculum, which includes civics, climate change, and financial literacy, suggesting that adding cursive may detract from these essential subjects.

Cursive handwriting is back from the dead. N.J. schools now must teach it in grades 3-5.

While proponents assert that cursive writing is vital for student development, critics question its necessity in an increasingly digital world. Some educators have noted that many high school students lack the ability to sign their names due to the absence of cursive instruction, indicating a potential gap in practical skills.

Governor Murphy Signs Bill Reviving Cursive Writing Instruction in Schools

• “Cursive writing is not about nostalgia – it’s about development,” — Assemblywoman Rosy Bagolie

Gov. Phil Murphy mandates teaching cursive writing in NJ schools as one of his last acts

• “The notion that a pupil could graduate from twelve years of education without knowing how to sign his or her name in cursive is unacceptable,” — Senator Jessica Scarcella-Spanton

Gov. Phil Murphy mandates teaching cursive writing in NJ schools as one of his last acts

• “Cursive is a timeless and necessary skill that we must incorporate into our curriculum again,” — Senator Shirley Turner

Cursive Writing Is Becoming Mandatory in More Public Schools. Here’s When the New Law Goes into Effect

• “By embedding cursive instruction into the curriculum for grades three through five, this legislation strengthens our commitment to a well-rounded education that prepares students for real-world tasks, helps them connect with historical texts, and complements other learning.” — Kevin Dehmer, New Jersey Department of Education Commissioner

Cursive writing to be taught in New Jersey schools again under new law

The reinstatement of cursive writing instruction in New Jersey public schools marks a notable shift in educational policy, reflecting a broader trend across the nation. As the state prepares for the implementation of this law, the debate over the relevance and necessity of cursive writing in modern education continues.

Gov. Phil Murphy mandates teaching cursive writing in NJ schools as one of his last acts