Imagine receiving a heartfelt letter from your grandparents, only to realize you can’t read it because it’s written in cursive. This is the exact moment that sparked a national sensation. Three brilliant students from Great Falls—Charlie Kotthoff, Lily Kirkaldie, and Danica Sabo—turned this personal challenge into a groundbreaking solution: Cursive Create, an educational app designed to revive the art of cursive reading and writing. Their innovation didn’t just catch local attention; it earned them a spot as winners of the prestigious Congressional App Challenge, a nationwide competition celebrating student creativity in technology. But here’s where it gets even more inspiring: these young developers are now gearing up to represent their community on a national stage in Washington, D.C.—though not without a hurdle. The trip is self-funded, and they’re rallying support to make it happen.
The journey began when Kotthoff, after struggling to read her grandparents’ letter, realized cursive was becoming a lost skill. ‘It’s still important,’ she reflected, and this realization became the foundation of their app. With the support of STARBASE Montana and Code Girls United, the trio dove into an after-school coding program, dedicating hours each week to learning and collaborating. Kotthoff tackled coding, Sabo led design, and Kirkaldie juggled coding, research, and presentations. ‘We really worked as a team,’ Kirkaldie emphasized, highlighting the collective effort that brought Cursive Create to life.
The app itself is a treasure trove of features: users can practice cursive letters, translate sentences, compare their handwriting to examples, and engage in interactive games. It even includes pencil-holding tutorials and image-based spelling activities—making it a comprehensive tool for learners of all ages. And this is the part most people miss: programs like these aren’t just about coding; they’re about empowering students with real-world skills, resilience, and confidence. As Shannon McInerney, STARBASE’s Advanced Coordinator, puts it, ‘It’s about showing students what they’re capable of.’
Winning the Congressional App Challenge was a surreal moment for the team. ‘I was shocked,’ Kotthoff recalled. The victory comes with an invitation to present their app at the U.S. Capitol, alongside other young innovators from across the country. But here’s the controversial part: the trip costs approximately $12,000, and the students are relying on community donations to make it happen. Is it fair for students to fund their own national recognition? Or should there be more institutional support for such achievements? These questions spark debate, but one thing is clear: these students are determined to showcase not just their app, but the potential of young minds when given the right tools.
‘If you’re even a little interested in something, it’s worth trying,’ Kirkaldie advises. ‘You never know where it might take you.’ Their story is a testament to the power of curiosity, collaboration, and community support. Will you be part of their journey? Community members and businesses can contribute to their fundraising efforts through Code Girls United or by visiting donation link.
As we celebrate their achievement, let’s also reflect: What does it take to nurture the next generation of innovators? And how can we ensure opportunities like these are accessible to all? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s keep the conversation going!
