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Utah's Seal of Biliteracy
What is the Seal of Biliteracy?
The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given by a school, district, or state in recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in English and one or more world languages* by high school graduation. The Seal encourages students to pursue biliteracy, honors the skills our students attain, and can be evidence of skills that are attractive to future employers and college admissions offices.
*World Language refers to languages other than English and includes American Sign Language and American Native Languages (Navajo, Ute, etc.).
Why get a Seal of Biliteracy?
- Showcase language skills
- Broaden opportunities with future employers
- Add to resume/college applications
- Receive seal on high school diploma
- Wear a sash/cord at graduation
The Utah State Board of Education has said, "This Seal of Biliterate Proficiency approach to learning languages prepares students to be college and career ready and builds state and national language capacity to improve economic competitiveness and strengthen national defense strategies. Equally, it answers the growing need for the critical skills of language and cultural competencies for relationship building—a keystone for success in global business and diverse social environments" (Seal of Biliterate Proficiency, USBE, August 2015).
How to Qualify for a Seal of Biliteracy:
- Complete all requirements for a Utah High School Diploma
- Provice acceptable evidence of proficiency in English
- Provide acceptable evidence of proficiency at the Intermediate-Mid level or higher in at least one World Language
Utah Seal of Biliteracy List of Acceptable Evidence
Steps for Applying for the Seal of Biliteracy:
- If you are a high school senior, meet with your counselor and make sure you're on track for graduation.
- Review the Seal of Biliteracy Checklist found here: Seal of Biliteracy Checklist
- If you qualify in both languages, download the application (see link below) and meet with your school counselor.
Contacts for Questions or to Schedule Testing:
- Shauna Winegar, District DLI and World Language Specialist: shauna.winegar@ccsdut.org
- Emmie Staker, District Secondary ESL Specialist: emmie.staker@ccsdut.org