Guest Writer: Liz O. and Handwriting Work

This week we are thrilled to have Liz Orman from KST and KBK sharing the amazing collaborative work of the handwriting subgroup discussions.   

Beginning in the spring of 2023, I had the opportunity to be part of a team that came together to focus on handwriting instruction in Kaneland. 

It all began with an increase in the number of Requests for Assistance after looking at student data. Were students needing support in writing, handwriting or both? Could the need for handwriting instruction be impacting writing? After a closer look, the focus would be handwriting. Teachers were looking for immediate ways to increase their capacity to teach handwriting. Kaneland’s occupational therapists (building experts) shared screeners, resources, and ways to empower learners to reflect and set personal goals on their letter formation progress. Change was happening, but there was still a greater need.

With the go ahead to continue the conversation, some of our district occupational therapists, coordinators, consultants, and coaches came together to create a clear picture of reality on handwriting instruction. After brainstorming, asking hard questions, reflecting on current structures, proposing solutions, and then collaborating with administration, we were excited about the opportunity to share a rough draft of a Handwriting Delivery Table with EAC. The table includes links with resources to support the teaching of handwriting. We hope teachers' voices are heard and that the proposed table brings clarity to support all of us who are teaching handwriting in Kaneland.