Are you proficient in 2 languages? If so... apply for the Seal of Biliteracy!
What is the Seal?
The Missouri Seal of Biliteracy is an award granted by a local district to recognize a student who has attained proficiency in English and one or more other world language(s) before high school graduation. The recognition of attaining biliteracy becomes a part of the high school transcript for these students and serves to certify attainment of biliteracy for the community, employers and universities. The Missouri Seal is meant to:
- encourage the study of a second language;
- recognize, promote, and praise students for their accomplishment;
- value diversity;
- provide employers with a means of identifying bilingual employees;
- provide universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants;
- prepare students with 21st century skills that will benefit them in a global economy and
- society; and
- strengthen relationships and honor the cultures and languages in a community.
What's in it for me?
The Seal of Biliteracy honors specialized skills and it is recognized on your high school transcript, which will be attractive to future employers and college admissions.
You can also earn up to 12 hours of college credit from many Universities in Missouri.
Who awards it?
The Seal of Biliteracy is credited by the Department of Early and Secondary Education. Learn more about the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy.
What do I have to do?
- Demonstrate proficiency in English
- English GPA ≥ 3.0
- Proficient on English EOC Exam or 4.0 on ACCESS Assessment
- Demonstrate proficiency in another language, including sign language
- 3+ on AP Language & Culture Exam or Literature & Culture Exam
- Complete a project that demonstrates socio-culture competence
- Complete an application;
- Meet with an assigned mentor to review requirements;
- Design a project to demonstrate socio-cultural competence;
- Complete approved project;
- Meet with mentor for final approval;
- Write a reflection and report on the completed project.
How do I apply?
Ask your counselor or principal for more information.
Eligibility
The Missouri Seal is intended to be earned by graduating high school students as well as awarded and celebrated at the culmination of the students’ senior year. Native English- speaking students may acquire the second language through traditional world language classrooms, community-based programs, at home, worldly experiences or any other method attempted by the student. English learners (ELs) and other heritage language learners are also eligible. It is important to emphasize that ALL students acquiring any language in addition to English is a potential awardee. As the Missouri Seal is intended to promote not only the acquisition of a second language but also the participation in a global society and economy, a measure of sociocultural competency is required of all students earning the Missouri Seal.
