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  • Handwriting in Our Schools

    Daily handwriting instruction is part of every elementary school’s schedule.

    It’s more than just neat writing. Handwriting helps children become better readers, stronger writers, and more confident learners.

    Why Handwriting Still Matters

    Even in a digital world, learning to write by hand builds important skills:

    • It supports reading and spelling.
      Forming letters by hand activates areas of the brain that help students recognize letters and words. This strengthens phonics and early literacy.
      (James & Engelhardt, 2012; Berninger et al., 2006)
    • It builds writing fluency.
      When students don’t have to think about how to form each letter, they can focus more on their ideas and what they want to say.
      (Graham et al., 2012)
    • It strengthens fine motor development.
      Writing by hand supports coordination and hand strength, especially in early childhood.
    • It provides a shared foundation.
      Handwriting is a core part of early learning. By making time for it during the school day, we ensure every student has the opportunity to grow as a writer, together with their peers.

  • Materials Used Across the District

    To support consistent instruction, all schools have been provided with the following handwriting workbooks:

    • Kindergarten–1st Grade
      My First Learn-to-Write Workbook by Crystal Radke
      Focuses on pencil control, line tracing, and letter formation
    • 2nd Grade
      Printing Handwriting Workbook by Carson Dellosa
      Practices with upper and lowercase letters, words, and short sentences
    • 3rd–5th Grade
      Cursive Handwriting Workbook by Carson Dellosa
      Emphasizes legible cursive writing, fluency, and sentence practice