Will cursive writing survive?

Columbia (WLTX) - Many might say cursive writing is going out of style, but still some parents fear it isn't emphasized enough or even at all in school anymore.

It's not the case in 3rd grade teacher Linda Rose's room. If penmanship and cursive writing has ever excited a class, her's is the one.

"I love it because it's fun. It's just fun," said 3rd grader at Coughman Road Elementary Lauryn Lacewell with a smile.

The passion is passed on by their teacher. "You can write whatever you want in cursive and no one can take that from you, that's your special ability. No ones' signature is like your own," said Rose to her class.

Linda Rose has taught for many years. She says the focus has changed on how much time is spent on perfecting penmanship, but that it's still a vital part of her students' day. Despite the growing use of computers and other technology she believes cursive writing is still essential.

"Cursive handwriting is an art. I love to see the flow of the letters," said Rose. "One of the greatest things I've enjoyed each year is to see my class enjoy it, and to see the smiles on their faces."

Rose says along with expressing themselves, her students gain confidence with each swirl of the pencil.

"They say if I can do this, I can do well in reading and in math," said Rose.

Despite the way Rose feels, the form of expression is becoming less of a priority in many classrooms. Cursive writing is still a state requirement, however many districts will tell you it's not taught with the same significance it used to be. Some don't even set aside specific time to focus on just handwriting or cursive.

Carissa Ferrugia with Sylvan Learning in Columbia says it's clear some of the students aren't getting the instruction they need.

"A 6th grader took our cursive class because he was unable to sign his name," said Ferrugia.

Many believe it's only the beginning, and a sign of the changing times. Others like Rose have faith, cursive isn't a dying art. "I think cursive writing will survive just as it did after the invention of the typewriter."

Rose says she recently polled her former students who are now in 4th and 5th grade. A majority of them say they prefer cursive writing.

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