SCCSD to offer Seal of Biliteracy to students
Beginning this academic year, the Sioux City Community School District (SCCSD) will offer a Seal of Biliteracy to graduating students who have attained proficiency in two or more languages, one of which being English. Students in SCCSD that complete requirements for AP Language and Culture, pass the AP Spanish language and culture exam with a minimum score of 3, and complete district determined requirements will be awarded the Seal of Bilteracy on their diploma, and receive a certificate of completion.
Being able to know and use more than one language is a critical skill for the 21st century. The seal of biliteracy recognizes the value of language diversity & cultural identity, prepares students with 21st century skills that will benefit them in the labor market and the global society, and provides employers, universities, and grant/scholarship providers with a method to recognize applicants for their dedication to attainment of biliteracy.
“We believe that being able to articulate thought in not only one, but two languages is a lifelong skill. Once obtained, the power of being both bi-literate and bi-lingual cannot be lost. We, are proud of our learners and school district, and are happy to award this seal to the students,” Victoria Albright, world languages coordinator for the Sioux City Community School District.
The Seal of Biliteracy, designated by the Iowa Department of Education, will be recognized statewide. The honor focuses not on “seat time” or completion of language courses; it relies on demonstrating proficiency in a given language.
Additional information can be found at https://educateiowa.gov/pk-12/instruction/biliteracy-seal.