Kedron Elementary wins award for cursive writing

Kedron Elementary students were honored for their cursive writing prowess with a John Hancock Banner and Proficiency Ribbon. 

Recognizing that cursive writing strengthens student confidence, connects learners to history, and supports essential cognitive development, the Georgia Department of Education honors schools that demonstrate excellence in cursive instruction through the John Hancock Award. 

The award celebrates elementary, middle, and high schools that go above and beyond in teaching cursive writing – a skill that builds fine motor strength, enhances literacy, and allows students to engage meaningfully with historical texts in their original form. As part of Georgia’s English Language Arts standards, cursive writing plays a vital role in preparing students for academic success and lifelong learning. 

The schools where 90% of students can write their name in cursive receive the John Hancock Banner and Proficiency Ribbon. Schools where 90% of students can write both their name and the Preamble to the U.S. Constitution in cursive are awarded the John Hancock Banner and Ribbon of Distinction.

“As Georgia’s State School Superintendent and a former classroom teacher, I firmly believe learning cursive is more than just a writing skill – it’s a connection to history, critical thinking, and personal expression,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “In an age of digital communication, the ability to read and write in cursive remains essential. It allows students to engage with foundational documents, develop fine motor skills, and write with individuality and fluency. Cursive writing builds cognitive connections that support literacy and learning across subjects. That’s why Georgia has preserved and prioritized cursive instruction as part of a well-rounded education. We’re committed to developing students who are not only college- and career-ready but also confident in their ability to read, write, and think for themselves.”