NOTA: Para otro idioma seleccionar Español en la parte superior de esta página) In an increasingly globalized world, the ability to communicate in more than one language is a highly valuable skill. The Seal of Biliteracy is an initiative that seeks to recognize and reward students who achieve proficiency in two or more languages by the time they graduate from high school. This recognition not only reflects linguistic competence but also an openness to cultural diversity.
What is the Seal of Biliteracy?
The Seal of Biliteracy is an award granted by schools, school districts, or states to students who have demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one other language. It was first implemented in California in 2011, and since then, many states across the U.S. have adopted the program as a way to highlight students’ multilingual abilities and prepare them for success in a globalized world.
Benefits of the Seal of Biliteracy
Students who earn this seal not only receive official recognition on their diplomas and transcripts, but they also gain significant advantages:
Higher education opportunities: Some universities value this recognition and may offer extra credits or waivers for foreign language requirements.
Enhanced job competitiveness: Being bilingual is a highly sought-after skill in many industries, including international business, education, healthcare, and government.
Promotes cultural diversity: This recognition emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting different cultures, which is crucial in an increasingly diverse workplace.
States Offering the Seal of Biliteracy
As of 2023, over 40 states and U.S. territories have adopted the Seal of Biliteracy program. Below is a list of states that offer the award:
Alabama
Alaska
Arizona
Arkansas
California
Colorado
Connecticut
Delaware
District of Columbia
Florida
Georgia
Hawaii
Idaho
Illinois
Indiana
Iowa
Kansas
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maine
Maryland
Massachusetts
Michigan
Minnesota
Mississippi
Missouri
Montana
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire
New Jersey
New Mexico
New York
North Carolina
North Dakota
Ohio
Oklahoma
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
Utah
Vermont
Virginia
Washington
West Virginia
Wisconsin
Wyoming
Additionally, U.S. territories like Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands have also implemented the Seal of Biliteracy.
How to Earn the Seal of Biliteracy
Each state sets its own criteria for awarding the seal, but typically, students must meet the following requirements:
Proficiency in English: This can be demonstrated through state exams or standardized tests like the ACT or SAT.
Proficiency in a second language: This can be a world language like Spanish, French, or Chinese, or a less common language, including indigenous languages or American Sign Language (ASL). Proficiency is often demonstrated through exams such as AP, IB, or specific language assessments.
Conclusion
The Seal of Biliteracy is a testament to the growing recognition of the importance of linguistic skills in the 21st century. As more states and territories join this initiative, new opportunities arise for students who wish to stand out in a global, interconnected world. If you're a high school student, consider working toward earning this recognition and unlocking a future full of possibilities!
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