We are excited to share that Medway Public Schools will be partnering with the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to offer the State Seal of Biliteracy as a means to recognize high school graduates who attain high functional and academic levels of proficiency in English and a different world language. Specifically, proficiency means that students can function in both languages in authentic, real-life situations. The Seal of Biliteracy is a special state insignia that will be affixed to the graduate’s diploma. As this is a new, statewide program, the intent of the Seal of Biliteracy is the following:
- To formally certify attainment of biliteracy skills;
- To recognize the value of language diversity;
- To provide universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants for the attainment of high skills in languages;
- To prepare students with skills that will benefit them in the labor market and the global society;
- To provide employers with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills; and
- To strengthen intergroup communication and honor the multiple cultures and languages in a community.
We believe that this is an extraordinary opportunity for our students and hope that our students will take advantage. We have attached a letter that includes more information about the Seal. Interested students can use this link to access the request form to participate. If you have any further questions, please contact Dr. Marieangie Ocasio-Varela, Grade 5-12 Coordinator of World Languages at mocasio-varela@medwayschools.org.
Sincerely,
John J. Murray, Ed.D.
Principal