World Languages & Home Language Arts

In recognition of the importance of bilingualism, many states, including New York, are beginning to award a Seal of Biliteracy in formal recognition of students who have studied and attained a high proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation. The intent of a Seal of Biliteracy is to:

• encourage the study of languages,
• identify high school graduates with language and biliteracy skills for employers,
• provide universities with additional information about applicants seeking admission,
• prepare students with twenty-first century skills, and
• affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual and global society.

Students who earn the Seal of Biliteracy will have a seal affixed to their diplomas, which they will receive at graduation. In addition, students who complete the requirements for earning the NYSSB during their junior year will have the designation listed on their official transcripts.
Three preliminary student requirements for earning the NYS Seal of Biliteracy:

• Earn an 80 or higher on the English Language Arts Regents exam
• Maintain an 85 or higher average in English
• Maintain an 85 or higher average in World Language

The full list of requirements can be found on the Brentwood NYS Seal of Biliteracy application.
Students who wish to pursue the New York State Seal of Biliteracy this year must complete the following steps, each of which will be guided by the classroom teacher and supported by a World Languages department staff advisor:

• Complete a student application. Applications are available in all World Languages classrooms and in guidance. Applications are due March 20th.
• Present a culminating project in English class that meets the criteria for reading, writing and research established by the district’s Seal of Biliteracy Committee. Culminating project is already included as part of the English 11 curriculum.
• Present a culminating project in World Languages class that meets the criteria for reading, writing and research established by the district’s Seal of Biliteracy Committee, and that is aligned with the New York State Checkpoint C Learning Standards and the Intermediate High level of the National World Readiness Standards. Culminating project is already included as part of the advanced course curriculum.
• Engage in an interactive target language interview with a Seal of Biliteracy Committee panel, during which the student must demonstrate knowledge of the project/essay topics, and proficiency in the target language. The student may be asked questions regarding the presented topics, the student’s process, personal feelings about the topic and other questions the panel feels necessary to measure the student’s knowledge of the topics and proficiency level.
• Attend advisory sessions. Advisory sessions will be available to Seal of Biliteracy candidates to provide support and guidance in preparation for the culminating interactive interview described above. Students are strongly encouraged to attend.