NYSSB (New York State Seal of Biliteracy) from the Spartana - District Newsletter

Biliteracy at Starpoint

The High School LOTE Department(World Languages) is very pleased to announce that we
have our first class of graduating Seniors who have achieved the distinction of the New York
State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB). These 4 students have demonstrated a high level of literacy
in both English and another World Language. In order to achieve this distinction, which will be
reflected on their official transcript, their diploma (with an official seal) and a medal to be worn
at graduation, they have gone through a rigorous process which includes:
• An application process
• They must have achieved a 3 or higher on the AP Language exam
• They must be in level 5 (checkpoint C) of a language and have achieved mastery
• They submit a project written in Spanish or French
• They must submit a paper in English
• They must orally present in front of a panel consisting of LOTE teachers, an English
teacher, ESL teacher, a guidance counselor and an administrator. They must present in the
target language, defend and answer questions and do the same for their English paper.
• Their names and qualifications are submitted and reviewed by the New York State department of World Languages.
The NYSSB recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency
in listening, speaking, reading and writing in one or more languages, in addition to English. It
identifies graduates with biliteracy skills for employers and prepares students with 21st century
skills. The seal recognizes the value or language instruction in schools and recognizes the value of
diversity in a multilingual society. Receiving the NYSSB seal is proof of hard work that students
have done to be culturally competent citizens to communicate with others on a global level.
Congratulations to the seal recipients for achieving this outstanding accomplishment.

Check out the presentation on the above New York State Seal of Biliteracy by our own Louise Petrie and Suszanne Staskiewicz - Click on the link below

NYSSB Presentation