Baune is National Handwriting Champion

Lamberton, MN – The halls of Red Rock Central Elementary School in Lamberton are abuzz with pride and admiration for fourth-grade student Caden Baune, who has recently been crowned the Grand National Champion in the prestigious Zaner-Bloser National Handwriting Contest. Under the attentive mentorship of his teachers, Caden’s exceptional handwriting skills have earned him this esteemed title, bringing national attention to this small Minnesota community. His fourth grade teacher, Jodi Smith, commented, “Caden’s competitive nature motivates him to work hard to do his best at everything he tries to do.  He took his time and made sure his entry was the best it could be.  We are all so proud of him.”   

The Zaner-Bloser competition is renowned for its commitment to preserving the art of penmanship, a skill increasingly overshadowed in the digital age. Each year, the contest draws entries from eager students across the nation, all vying for the honor of being recognized for their exemplary handwriting. 

Zaner-Bloser estimates that more than 2.5 million students have participated in the contest since its inception.  The sentence all students are required to write on their entry form is chosen because it contains every letter of the alphabet: The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog. Contestants are also required to write their first and last names on the entry form. Entries are judged according to the keys to legibility: shape, size, spacing, and slant.  All Grand National Champions receive a cash prize and a special trophy.

Elementary Principal Todd Lee, who views Caden’s triumph as a testament to the school’s dedication to comprehensive education, says “Caden’s accomplishment is a beacon of excellence for Red Rock Central,” Lee remarked. “It highlights the remarkable capabilities of our students and the caliber of education we provide.”