New Resource for Parents and Educators Offers Access to Handwriting Research and White Paper

WASHINGTON, Feb. 22, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- The latest findings in the debate regarding the role handwriting plays in a student's academic success are now available online for school administrators, teachers, and parents.  The website, www.hw21summit.com, features research, surveys, media coverage, a white paper, and opportunities to "get involved" when it comes to the role handwriting plays in the 21st century.

In January, researchers and education thought leaders convened for Handwriting in the 21st Century? An Educational Summit to discuss the role of handwriting instruction in the 21st century classroom. Zaner-Bloser, in partnership with the American Association of School Administrators, sponsored the event.

As a result of the collaborative summit, a white paper is now available titled: Handwriting in the 21st Century? Research Shows Why Handwriting Belongs in Today's Classroom.  Published by Saperstein Associates Inc., the white paper summarizes the research presented at the summit by:

• Dr. Virginia Berninger, University of Washington
• Dr. Jane Case-Smith, The Ohio State University
• Dr. Gerry Conti, Wayne State University
• Dr. Tanya Santangelo, Arcadia University (research co-authored by Dr. Steve Graham, Vanderbilt University)
• Dr. Karin Harman James, Indiana University
• Dr. Stephen Peverly, Teachers College, Columbia University

Handwriting and keyboarding standards that can supplement the Common Core State Standards will be available soon on the summit website, http://www.hw21summit.com, as well as numerous opportunities for education advocates and parents to get involved.

About Zaner-Bloser
Zaner-Bloser, a wholly owned subsidiary of Highlights for Children with more than 120 years of experience in education, is one of the premier publishers of research-based reading, writing, spelling, vocabulary and handwriting programs. The Zaner-Bloser mission is to create dynamic, appealing and effective educational programs and services. Zaner-Bloser focuses on distinctive programs that inspire all students to become engaged, literate participants in the global society.

About Saperstein Associates
Saperstein Associates is a full-service, opinion research company helping public- and private-sector clients manage risk by providing accurate, reliable information, coupled with insight. Its president, Dr. Martin Saperstein, served as moderator at Handwriting in the 21st Century? An Educational Summit.

SOURCE Zaner-Bloser