Seal of Biliteracy

CLASS OF 2024 SEAL RECIPIENTS

What is the Seal of Biliteracy?

The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given in recognition of students who have attained Intermediate Mid proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation.  The Seal of Biliteracy is a statement of accomplishment and is viewed as an asset when applying for a job or for college admission.  The Seal serves to certify attainment of biliteracy for students, employers and institutions of higher education. It is a statement that signals evidence of a student’s readiness for career and college, and for engagement as a global citizen.

What are the Benefits to our Students?

• Highlight second language ability as a key 21st Century Skill in college, career, and life.

• Show universities and potential employers that a student has the ability to effectively communicate with people from two or more languages and cultures, both orally and in writing.

• Encourage all students to pursue proficiency in at least one language other than their native language.

• Reward students for their level of proficiency or mastery of a language.

• Strengthen relationships, affirm the value of diversity, and honor the multiple cultures and languages of a community.

• The American Council on Education (ACE) has recommended the STAMP tests to colleges for up to 16 college credits beginning with Novice High scores.

How will the Seal of Biliteracy be Administered & Tracked in Westport?

• Juniors and Seniors will be offered the opportunity to take the STAMP assessment  in March.  Students will be tested in their WL class.  Those not currently enrolled will have an opportunity to test (assessments are available in other languages beyond those that we currently offer) in the Fall of their junior and senior years. 

• All students who earn Intermediate Mid or higher on all four parts of the test (reading, writing, listening and speaking) will be eligible to receive the Seal of Biliteracy. They must also complete four years of Language Arts.

•  All students who have met both the ELA and the WL requirements will have a category titled “Seal of Biliteracy Spanish”, “Seal of Biliteracy French”, etc. added to their official transcripts to be shared with colleges upon graduation.

• All AP students will also have the opportunity to take the AP exam for Seal eligibility (must score 3 or higher).

• Evidence that can be submitted for Seal eligibility:

  • STAMP- Intermediate Mid on ALL four domains

  • STAMP for Latin - Intermediate Mid

  • AP exam- 3 or higher

  • OPIc  (Speaking & Listening) & WPT (Reading & Writing)- Potential for College credit

  • ASL Proficiency Interview or Sign Language Proficiency test- 3 or Intermediate

  • DELE or DELF (Diplomas from Ministry of Education)- B1 

For more information, visit the website: www.SealofBiliteracy.org