Seal of Biliteracy

Our school district is honored to acknowledge the exceptional linguistic abilities of our students through the Seal of Biliteracy. This prestigious award celebrates students who achieve high levels of proficiency in two or more languages. By earning this distinction, students showcase their preparedness for college, career opportunities, and engagement in a globally interconnected community.

At CCSD, we celebrate the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of our students. We commend the dedication and effort that learners invest in achieving their Seal of Biliteracy after years of language study.

The CCSD Seal of Biliteracy is prominently featured on transcripts, enhancing your visibility on resumes and during interviews.
Graduates who are biliterate or multilingual have access to greater earning potential, more job opportunities, and the ability to forge strong connections within their communities.
The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and one or more additional languages.
Best of all, the CCSD Seal of Biliteracy is offered at no cost!

We encourage all students to take advantage of this valuable opportunity!

Contacts Per School

Smoky Hill HS

Eaglecrest HS

Cherry Creek HS

Grandview HS

Overland HS

Cherokee Trail HS

Elevation HS

Application Information

Criteria for Application

Application Form Tinyurl: https://tinyurl.com/CCSDbiliteracy

QR Code for the Seal of Biliteracy Application (QR Code for Application Form)

Important Dates

Fernando Pabon Ferro

Faculty Information

Location(s)

ISF

Department(s)

Curriculum and Instruction

Title(s)

Partner of 6-12 World Languages

Contact Information

School Email

(Primary)

Benefits of the Seal of Biliteracy (SoBL)

Student

1. College & Career Advantage: It boosts college applications and résumés by showing real-world language skills that are valuable in many careers.

2. Recognition of Skills: It honors students who’ve worked hard to become proficient in two or more languages.

3. Scholarship Opportunities: Some colleges offer scholarships or course credit to Seal recipients.

4. Increased Confidence: Students gain a stronger sense of identity and pride in their cultural and linguistic background.

5. Increased Job Opportunity: Being bilingual or multilingual is a significant asset in the job market. Employers often seek individuals who can communicate with customers and colleagues in multiple languages. The SoBL can set students apart from their peers and increase their employability in various fields.

6. Cultural Awareness and Appreciation: Proficiency in more than one language fosters cultural understanding and appreciation. Students with the SoBL are often more aware of cultural nuances and can navigate different cultural contexts more effectively.

7. Improved Cognitive Skills: Research has shown that learning multiple languages can enhance cognitive abilities. Bilingual students often display better problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking. The process of switching between languages can improve brain function and lead to greater mental flexibility

8. Contribution to the Community: Students who possess the SoBL can serve as valuable resources within their communities. They can help bridge language gaps, assist non-English speakers, and promote inclusivity.

School District

1. Increased College & Career Opportunities: In today’s global economy, bilingual individuals are in high demand. By offering the SoBL, school districts prepare students for various career paths and higher education opportunities. Many colleges and universities value bilingualism, and some even offer scholarships or admissions advantages to students who are multilingual.

2. Encourages Language Learning: Awarding the SoBL encourages students to pursue language studies, which can lead to improved academic performance. Research shows that bilingual students often excel in critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By recognizing and rewarding their language proficiency, districts motivate students to engage more deeply with their education.

3. Validates Multilingualism: Recognizes the value of maintaining native or heritage languages.

4. Equity & Inclusion: Supports English Learners by acknowledging their bilingual/bicultural assets instead of viewing them as deficits.

5. Positive Community Image: Shows a commitment to global readiness and multicultural education. When districts recognize language proficiency, they acknowledge the diverse backgrounds of their student population. This recognition can strengthen relationships between schools and families, particularly in communities with a high number of multilingual families. By valuing students’ language skills, districts can build trust and collaboration with parents and local organizations.

6. Cultural Awareness and Diversity:

The Seal of Biliteracy promotes cultural appreciation and understanding within the school community. By encouraging students to learn multiple languages, districts foster an environment that values diversity and inclusivity. This cultural awareness helps students develop empathy and respect for different perspectives, which is essential in a multicultural society

7. Improved Language Programs: The Seal of Biliteracy can lead to the enhancement of language programs within schools. As districts implement criteria for the Seal, they may invest more in language education, resulting in better teaching resources, professional development for educators, and expanded language offerings. This commitment to language education benefits all students, not just those pursuing the Seal.

8. Global Citizenship:

Awarding the Seal of Biliteracy aligns with the goals of preparing students to be global citizens. In an interconnected world, the ability to communicate in multiple languages is a vital skill. By promoting language proficiency, school districts equip students with tools to engage in global dialogues and contribute positively to society

Broader Community

1. Workforce Readiness: Bilingual graduates are more prepared for local and global job markets, especially in healthcare, education, business, and public service.

2. Civic Engagement: Encourages cross-cultural communication and understanding.

3. Cultural Preservation: Recognizing students for their proficiency in languages can also contribute to the preservation of heritage languages. Many students who receive the SoBL speak languages that are at risk of disappearing.

4. Cultural Awareness: Awarding the SoBL promotes an understanding and appreciation of different cultures. Students who are proficient in multiple languages often gain insights into the traditions, histories, and perspectives of diverse communities. This cultural awareness fosters respect and empathy, helping to create a more inclusive society.

5. Economic Advantages: Communities benefit economically when residents are bilingual or multilingual. Employers increasingly seek individuals who can communicate with a diverse clientele. By recognizing language proficiency, school districts prepare students for the global job market, making them more competitive and increasing their career opportunities. This, in turn, can lead to economic growth within the community.

6. Strengthening Community Relationships: The Seal of Biliteracy can foster stronger ties within multilingual communities. It encourages collaboration between schools, families, and local organizations. By valuing language diversity, districts can build partnerships that support students and families in their language-learning journeys, enhancing community cohesion.

In Conclusion

In conclusion, the Seal of Biliteracy offers significant advantages for students, the school districts, and the community. From improving student achievement and expanding career opportunities to fostering cultural awareness and enhancing language education, the benefits are multifaceted. By recognizing and celebrating multilingualism and multiculturalism, districts not only enrich their students’ educational experiences but also prepare them for a brighter future in a diverse world. It is a testament to the hard work and commitment that students have put into mastering multiple languages.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does CCSD have a Seal of Biliteracy?

- It boosts college applications and résumés by showing real-world language skills that are valuable in many careers.

- Students gain a stronger sense of identity and pride in their cultural and linguistic background.

- In today’s globalized world, being bilingual or multilingual is a significant asset in the job market. Employers often seek individuals who can communicate with customers and colleagues in multiple languages.

- Bilingual students often display better problem-solving skills, creativity, and critical thinking.

- Recognizes the value of maintaining native or heritage languages.

2. Who can earn the Seal of Biliteracy?

The Seal of Biliteracy is available to all students who demonstrate proficiency in multiple languages, including any of the hundreds of languages represented in Cherry Creek School District (CCSD), as well as American Sign Language.

Students will receive the Seal upon graduation; however, they may meet other requirements for English and one or more World languages through a certified assessment such as the AAPPL or AP exam, at any point during their high school years.

We encourage students to apply for the Seal in their 12th grade. Eleventh graders who have completed all necessary requirements (with the exception of graduation requirements) are invited to include the Seal on their college applications. The Seal will be reflected on their transcripts with the statement, “Student will complete all requirements to earn the Seal of Biliteracy upon graduation.”

3. What is the cost to apply for the Seal?

4. I speak a language that is not taught at my school. Can I apply to the Seal of Biliteracy?

5. My AP exam results won’t be available until after graduation. Can I earn the Seal?

Yes. We encourage you to submit your application for the Seal by the specified deadline. If you have fulfilled all other requirements, you will receive a provisional award of the Seal, pending your final AP test results. You are welcome to participate in the celebration and will receive an honor cord to wear at graduation; however, please note that the Seal cannot be officially added to your transcript until we have received the final AP results.

6. Are there any Prep materials for the AAPPL and STAMP exams?

7. What is the difference between AP and AAPPL exams?

Students enrolled in Advanced Placement (AP) courses for languages other than English will take the AP exam. To qualify for the Seal of Biliteracy, students must achieve a score of 3 or higher. Additionally, a qualifying score may lead to college credits, contingent upon the policies of the individual college.

It is important to note that AP results are not available until mid-July. Therefore, seniors who seek qualification through AP exams will be awarded the Seal on a provisional basis until their results are received. The Seal will not be reflected on student transcripts until the exam results are finalized.

Furthermore, students who achieve a score of I4 or higher on all four sections of the AAPPL test will also qualify for the Seal. AAPPL scores do not confer college credits. However, students opting to take the AAPPL will receive their scores earlier in the academic year, allowing them to earn the Seal before graduation and/or college applications.