Soon-to-be high school graduates can now earn a distinction on their diplomas. The South Dakota Seal of Biliteracy is available for students who demonstrate proficiency in English and another language.
Dr. Andy McKay, the K-12 Spanish Immersion Program specialist for the Sioux Falls School District, said the seal will distinguish students as having valuable proficiencies for schools and employers.
“Fundamentally, it provides clear information to both future employers and post-secondary institutions about what students can do across two languages,” said McKay.
“The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes those students who have put in the effort to become proficient in more than one language,” said Joe Graves, South Dakota’s Secretary of Education. “A biliterate student is one who will be an asset to any organization that operates internationally or serves people who speak languages other than English. The biliterate student is also one who has met the classical obligation of the truly educated person, one who has demonstrated true mastery of more than his or her native tongue.”
The DOE employed a soft launch last spring with more than five districts participating. This year is the first full year of the program.
More information about the seal can be found on the DOE website.