Cursive writing: a lost art?

In this technology age, cursive writing is slowly becoming a thing of the past.

"When you see a 17 or 18-year-old student struggle to sign their name, it can be painful," said Kim Parsons, school counselor at Herbert Hoover High School.

Instead of writing classes, many schools incorporate cursive through language arts, but not as much emphasis is placed on the skill.

Many educators said they notice the decline.

"It's just something that has become extinct. Students don't know how to write in cursive. They just don't," said Cara Phillips, Assistant Principal at Webster County High School.

One student told us he still uses the skill, but many of his classmates have lost practice.

"I think that it is really important. In AP U.S. history we are required to read documents that are in cursive and some students can't do that. It makes it a lot easier than having to transfer stuff over. My teacher writes in cursive and you have to sign your name in cursive. I think that it makes your handwriting neater," said Hunter Donahoe, high school junior.

Not only can cursive add an extra personal touch, but it can also be a benefit to your career.

"I think that it is faster than printing. I use it a lot, but I write a lot. I am a physician assistant so I am constantly writing scripts and stuff. It's so much faster to use cursive," said Dana Funari, Monongalia County resident.

One parent told us her daughter is learning cursive. She said it is important that cursive makes a comeback.

"She loves it so she really likes to practice it at home. Even over the summer she has been working on her skills," said Adriane Herlihy, Monongalia County resident.

"It is a skill that everyone needs to do especially today. We just can't be without it. To be successful, to move ahead in every job, I think that you have to have that," said Phillips.