Information About the Seal of Biliteracy

  • In recognition of the importance of bilingualism, many states, including New York, are beginning to award a seal of biliteracy to students who have studied and attained a high proficiency in English and another language by high school graduation. The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) was established to recognize 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.”
    The intent of the NYSSB 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
    * recognize the value of foreign and native language instruction in schools
    * affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society


    The NYSSB will be awarded by the Commissioner to students who meet criteria established by the Board of Regents in districts that voluntarily agree to participate in the program. This Award advances HFFMCSD’s commitment that every student graduates prepared and equipped with the knowledge and skills to participate in college, a career, and a diverse 21st century society. The award honors the rich linguistic and cultural assets of the district, and communicates that mastery of two or more languages is an important skill, enabling effective participation in a global, political, social, and economic context. Additionally, the award will encourage students to study languages, and provide employers and universities with a method of identifying and recognizing people with language and biliteracy skills.

    Each candidate for the Seal of Biliteracy must complete an application, meet assessment requirements, and complete a summative project which includes; an essay, interview and presentation and will be reviewed by the NYSSB Committee. Applications will be available in the guidance office as well as on the HFFMCSD website. The application declaring your intent to pursue the Seal of Biliteracy is due on March 15, 2023.  For more information, please contact the Guidance Office at 845-446-9575 x-2600.