Education: curriculum; model program of instruction in cursive handwriting; create, and make optional for public schools. Amends 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1 - 380.1852) by adding sec. 1164c.
Summary
House Bill 4675 would amend Michigan’s Revised School Code to require the Department of Education to develop or adopt, by June 1, 2027, a list of model cursive handwriting instruction programs and guidance on how cursive instruction can be incorporated into state standards to satisfy Michigan Merit Standard credit requirements. The bill frames cursive as a type of penmanship and directs the department to make the model programs available to public schools.
The bill does not mandate cursive instruction statewide, but it strongly encourages local school boards, intermediate school districts, and public school academies to incorporate one of the model programs into their curricula. The encouragement would begin with the 2027-2028 school year, or earlier, beginning with the 2026-2027 school year if the department completes the model list before that school year starts.
Impact
HB 4675 would add a new section to the Revised School Code and create a state-level framework for cursive handwriting instruction in public schools. It would require the Department of Education to produce model instructional programs and implementation guidance, while leaving local districts discretion over whether to adopt them. The bill could affect curriculum planning, teacher instruction, and how schools meet Michigan Merit Standard credit expectations under sections 1278a and 1278b.
Sentiment
The bill appears generally favorable toward restoring or promoting cursive instruction, but in a non-mandatory way that preserves local control. The caption’s reference to making the program optional suggests an effort to avoid imposing a new statewide requirement on schools. No committee transcripts or recorded votes were provided, so there is no direct evidence of formal support or opposition in the available materials.
Contention
The main point of contention is likely whether cursive instruction should be promoted at all, and if so, whether the state should merely encourage it or require it. Supporters would likely favor preserving handwriting skills and standardizing access to model curricula, while opponents may view it as an unnecessary addition to school curricula or an intrusion on district autonomy. Because the bill is structured as a strong encouragement rather than a mandate, it also reflects a compromise between statewide guidance and local control.
Education: curriculum; foreign language requirement; remove, and replace with life skill requirement. Amends secs. 1278a, 1278b & 1531f of 1976 PA 451 (MCL 380.1278a et seq.).