Seal of Biliteracy

• What is the Seal of Biliteracy? The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in English and in another language. The seal appears on a student’s official transcript and high school diploma. A biliterate person can listen, speak, read and write at the Intermediate High proficiency level (according to ACTFL).

• How is this achieved? Seniors enrolled in a level 4 honors or AP Language course will have the opportunity by showing proficiency in both English and in the language they are taking (Spanish, French or German) at RBHS.

Criteria for the Seal of Biliteracy

• What happens if the student does not meet the Seal of Biliteracy criteria? The student will have the opportunity to attain what is known as the Commendation Recognition, which provides partial recognition, or that the student is reaching towards the Intermediate High proficiency level.

• What if the student is not taking a world language class at RBHS and the student is a heritage/native speaker of another language? If the student is not taking a world language course, but is a heritage/native speaker of a language (even of a language not offered at RBHS), they still may achieve this during their senior year. The student and parent should contact the Seal of Biliteracy coordinator

• What are the benefits? Colleges recognize the seal by awarding you either:

  • College credit in Illinois and other states (45 participating states)

  • Accelerated standing in a language course (= skipping the basic language courses)

  • Exemption from taking a language course as you complete your general education requirements at the college or university level

  • Improves your college application and your resume

  • Added scholarship and career opportunities

• When are the AAPPL/STAMP or AP World Language Exams Taken

  • The AAPPL/STAMP Exams will be administered in November, December, and February. The student may sign up for the exam by filling out this Google Form and then paying the appropriate fee.

  • The AP World Language and Culture Exams are administered during the month of May. Please consult the AP Central College Board website.

• If you have any further questions about our Seal of Biliteracy Program at RBHS, please consult the Instructional Coach for the World Language Department and Seal of Biliteracy Coordinator: Mr. Tinoco ([email protected])