National assessments reveal a troubling reality every year: nearly 75% of 8th and 12th-graders in the United States are not proficient in writing. Public school students, in particular, make 51% more writing errors than their private school peers. This is not just an English class problem; it is a communication crisis affecting students across all subjects.

Classic literature is not just about reading old stories; it is about learning to read closely, think critically, and write with purpose. In my classroom, classic works become springboards for students to develop essential reading and writing skills while exploring the richness of the human experience. Here’s how our approach to reading and writing with the classics evolves from middle school to high school and why it matters.

In previous posts, we explored cursive’s many benefits. But why did this valuable skill disappear from most classrooms? The answer involves historical shifts, education policies, and changing priorities.

At first glance, cursive handwriting might seem unnecessary in our increasingly paperless world. Yet, extensive research shows compelling practical and developmental advantages that are often overlooked.