Bill > S2289

This bill establishes a State Seal of Biliteracy, which will be awarded by school districts to high school graduates who demonstrate proficiency in one or more languages in addition to English, with "foreign language" defined to include American Sign Language. The State Seal of Biliteracy aims to encourage language study, certify language proficiency, help employers identify individuals with language skills, assist universities in recognizing and awarding academic credit, prepare students with 21st-century skills, promote foreign language and native/heritage language instruction, and foster stronger intergroup relationships by valuing diversity and the Commonwealth's multiple cultures and languages. The department will create criteria, guidelines, and an insignia for the seal, consulting with the Massachusetts Foreign Language Association, and school districts will be responsible for identifying eligible students and awarding the seal on diplomas or transcripts, with electronic availability also provided.