The Pennsylvania House has overwhelmingly passed a bill that would require elementary schools to teach cursive writing, citing benefits such as improved memory and hand-eye coordination. Supporters of the bill, which now goes to the Pennsylvania Senate, also say cursive is essential for reading historical documents.

Educators are reconsidering how to approach inclusive content after the Supreme Court's decision in Mahmoud v. Taylor, which allows religious parents to opt out of LGBTQ+ inclusive instruction. Some teachers may avoid LGBTQ+ topics, while others will find ways to maintain inclusivity without additional work.

Teachers are resilient and collaborative but face challenges such as student behavior and burnout, according to a Horace Mann survey. Teachers suggest improving school culture with strategies such as increasing planning time, offering financial wellness support and expanding staff recognition, while districts are responding with solutions such as hiring permanent substitutes and hosting financial education sessions.

Four high schools in Lauderdale County, Miss., have joined the Jumpstart Test Prep pilot program to help students prepare for college entrance exams. The program aims to help high school students boost their ACT scores by providing targeted preparation and incentivizing participation. 

Three key concepts for educational leaders regarding technology include balancing usability with security, understanding the basics of technology systems and being data-informed rather than data-driven, writes Steve Baule, a former technology director. Baule notes that while strong security is important, it should not hinder usability, and that leaders should have a foundational understanding of technology to make informed decisions.

Fifth graders at Fort River School in Amherst, Mass., are actively supporting state legislation to reduce single-use plastics, promote food security and enhance gun safety. In their civics lessons, students have raised funds through bake sales and food drives and presented their initiatives to the Amherst School Committee.

The Viking Visionaries Initiative at Readington Middle School in New Jersey, created by civics teacher Will Daly and special education teacher Lauren Greenberg, aims to foster civic engagement among eighth graders through community service. Projects this year included environmental work, assisting at local businesses and helping at senior residences.

Discover essential resources and networking opportunities to support local advocacy and to strengthen our collective voice and influence at the National Council for the Social Studies Summer Leadership Institute, held July 14 to 16 in Kansas City, Mo. Participants will learn from local community leaders, explore Kansas City landmarks and attend an exclusive author event with presidential historian Dr. Lindsay M. Chervinsky.

As educators, you make a difference every day - now let NCSS celebrate you. Nominate yourself or a colleague for a National Council for the Social Studies Award, and shine a national spotlight on outstanding contributions to social studies education. Nominations are due July 18, 2025.