While pen pals are being forecast as one of the biggest lifestyle trends of 2026, students in Montgomery County Public Schools were already experiencing the benefits of handwritten correspondence months ago.
According to Pinterest Predicts 2026, pen pals and letter writing are expected to surge in popularity as people — particularly younger generations — seek deeper, more personal connections away from screens. Long before the trend appeared in national forecasts, students at Quince Orchard High School were participating in an international pen pal exchange with students from France.
The program, which has been on going for years, paired American and French students who exchanged handwritten letters, learning about each
other’s cultures, daily lives, and educational experiences. The exchange recently culminated in an in-person visit when the French students traveled to Montgomery County to meet their pen pals face-to-face.
A Local Story With Global Relevance
The pen pal exchange wasn’t designed to follow a trend — but it reflects a broader cultural shift now gaining attention worldwide.
Educators involved in the program say the experience helped students strengthen writing skills, build cultural awareness, and develop meaningful relationships beyond social media. For many students, the anticipation of receiving a physical letter added a sense of excitement and intention that digital communication often lacks.
Pinterest’s annual trend report highlights a growing interest in analog activities such as journaling, letter writing, and creative stationery. Analysts attribute the resurgence to increased screen fatigue and a desire for slower, more thoughtful forms of communication.
Why Pen Pals Are Returning in 2026
Trend forecasters say pen pals appeal to a generation seeking authenticity. Unlike instant messaging, handwritten letters require patience, creativity, and emotional investment.
Benefits often cited include:
- Improved writing and communication skills
- Greater cultural understanding
- Stronger emotional connections
- Reduced reliance on screens
For schools, pen pal programs also align with broader educational goals around global citizenship and experiential learning.
Montgomery County Schools Leading the Way
Montgomery County’s pen pal exchange demonstrates how local schools are already adapting to changing cultural values. By blending traditional communication with modern education, MCPS programs show how students can connect globally without relying solely on technology.
As interest in pen pals continues to grow heading into 2026, programs like this one may become more common across the country — with Montgomery County serving as an early example of the trend in action.
