MILWAUKEE (MAY 18, 2023) On Saturday, May 19, 2023, at Golda Meir School (227 W. Pleasant St.) from 10:30 to 12:30 students will be honored with the Seal of Biliteracy. Students earning the Seal of Biliteracy must demonstrate proficiency in English and another language.
This seal is sanctioned by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and is awarded to high school seniors who successfully complete a rigorous set of criteria. It can be earned by native speakers of English or native speakers of about 40 different languages. The seal is approved by the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
Obtaining the seal requires years of hard work and dedication. Most students begin the program in their freshman or sophomore year and some begin in the 8th grade.
In order to qualify, students must score in English and another language on the ACT, ACT Aspire, the ACTFL through the Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages, selected AP or IB exams, or the ACCESS test for English Learner students.
Students must also participate in a predetermined number of cultural activities, clubs, workshops, and/or conferences. Students are evaluated through a written essay, presentation, or interview.
Upon graduation, students who successfully earn the seal receive a special Seal of Biliteracy certificate issued by DPI and a lapel pin signifying their completion of the program. This accomplishment is also added to the student’s high school transcript.
The Seal of Biliteracy is available in eight MPS schools, with more schools preparing to add the program. Students should ask a school administrator for the Seal of Biliteracy Coordinator at their school.
Current list of MPS schools offering the biliteracy program:
Audubon High School
Bradley Tech
Golda Meir
Hamilton High School
Milwaukee High School of the Arts
Milwaukee School of Languages
Riverside High School
South Division High School
Interested students should visit the Seal of Biliteracy webpage for more information.
