Keyboarding is a skill widely embraced by contemporary youth, but it must complement, rather than replace, cursive writing.
A story in Wednesday's News Tribune - titled "Keeping cursive relevant" - focused on some area teachers who continue to extol, and instruct, the virtues of cursive writing.
We're with them, although we recognize the irony of using a computer keyboard to champion cursive writing.
A computer is a useful, efficient tool for writers. But cursive writing and proper penmanship teach competencies and skills not accessible by using a keyboard.
Gayla Spencer, a Russellville Middle School language arts teacher, said: "I've taught 25 years and have seen the difference it (cursive writing) makes. I feel like it helps students make a connection between reading and writing, seeing the development of words on paper."
That connection commonly is known as comprehension, a fundamental building block for learning and understanding.
Spencer referenced an article by David Sortino, a special education teacher, who wrote: "Rand Nelson of Peterson Directed Handwriting said the act of physically gripping a pen or pencil and practicing the swirls, curls and connections of cursive handwriting activates parts of the brain that lead to increased language fluency."
Another advocate of cursive writing, Renee Phillips, who teaches at Clarksburg K-8 School, said: "Technology is wonderful and it is utilized in our school a lot, but a signature and good brain function will always be needed."
Phillips added: "I think some educational people - teachers, administrators, etc. - have lost some common sense when talking about certain subjects. Manners, social skills and good handwriting will always be needed. Too many kids are losing some of the basics when we forget that they are still human, not computers."
We understand teachers today face ever-increasing responsibilities, but some fundamentals must not be abandoned.
We are reminded of the message contained in a traditional folk song often associated with the Girl Scouts. The lyrics begin: "Make new friends, but keep the old. One is silver, the other gold."
Technology offers virtues of ease and efficiency, but some traditional values and skills, including cursive writing, remain incomparable and precious.