Alabama-Mississippi
Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages
Seal of Biliteracy
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What is the Seal of Biliteracy? An award added to high school graduate diplomas and transcripts, given by a school, district, or state in recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in English and at least one other world language, including American Sign Language, by high school graduation.
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Why implement it? The Seal of Biliteracy encourages students to pursue biliteracy, honors the skills our students attain, and can be evidence of skills that are attractive to future employers and college admissions offices.
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Who awards the seal? The Seal of Biliteracy was designed to be awarded by school district or state; however, an individual school site or school program may also decide to implement the award.
The Purpose of the Seal of Biliteracy​
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To encourage students to study languages.
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To certify attainment of biliteracy.
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To provide employers with a method of identifying people proficient in language and biliteracy skills.
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To provide institutions of higher education with a method to recognize and give academic credit to applicants seeking admission.
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To prepare students with 21st century skills.
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To recognize and promote world language instruction in public schools.
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To strengthen intergroup relationships, affirm the value of diversity, and honor the multiple cultures and languages of a community.
Watch this engaging presentation by Susan Spezzini, Ph.D. [University of Alabama at Birmingham]
Alabama Seal of Biliteracy​
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Signed into law by Governor Kay Ivey on April 6, 2022.
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See contact information on the AWLA site
Mississippi Seal of Biliteracy
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State Seal was approved in October 2019
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See details and contact information on the MS Department of Education site