A Small Idea, A Big Impact: Great Falls Students Make Waves with Cursive App
In a heartwarming tale of innovation and community support, three students from Great Falls are on the cusp of a national spotlight, all because of a simple yet powerful idea.
Charlie Kotthoff, Lily Kirkaldie, and Danica Sabo, the masterminds behind Cursive Create, an app designed to revive the art of cursive writing, are about to embark on a journey that will take them to Washington, D.C. But here's where it gets controversial: in an age where technology often takes the spotlight, these students are proving that traditional skills like cursive writing still matter.
It all started with a personal experience. Kotthoff received a heartfelt letter from her grandparents, written in beautiful cursive, but to her dismay, she couldn't decipher it. "I had to ask my mom to read it. That's when I realized cursive is still relevant, even though it's not taught much anymore," she shared.
And this is the part most people miss: these students didn't just identify a problem; they took action. With support from STARBASE Montana and Code Girls United, they developed an app that not only teaches cursive but also makes it fun and interactive. Users can practice letters, translate sentences, compare their handwriting, and even play games to reinforce learning. It's a comprehensive tool that brings cursive writing into the digital age.
The students' hard work paid off when Cursive Create was named a winner in the Congressional App Challenge, a prestigious competition celebrating student innovation. But the win brings with it a challenge: the trip to Washington, D.C., is self-funded, and the team needs community support to make it happen.
"This is a chance for them to represent Great Falls and Montana on a national stage," says Shannon McInerney, STARBASE's Advanced Coordinator. "It's about more than just the app; it's about showing what students are capable of when given the right tools and encouragement."
The students are eager to share their creation and inspire others. "If you have even a slight interest in something, go for it. You never know the doors it might open," Kirkaldie encourages.
So, will these young innovators make it to Washington, D.C.? It's up to the community to decide. Will you be a part of their journey? The power is in your hands.
Donate and learn more about their trip: Link to Donation Page
Hear more from Shannon McInerney about their fundraising efforts: Link to Interview
What do you think about the importance of traditional skills like cursive writing in today's digital world? Share your thoughts in the comments!
