The 2024 National Assessment of Educational Progress, also known as the Nation's Report Card, shows that only 31% of fourth graders are proficient in reading, underscoring the need for elementary teachers to prioritize reading skills. Mastering reading prepares students for cursive writing, which research indicates can enhance brain activity related to reading, improving comprehension and spelling. While cursive shouldn't replace reading instruction, introducing it after reading can strengthen a child's academic foundation for lifelong literacy.
