Our World Languages Department offers a variety of languages, leading to Advanced Placement options.
Our engaging, student-centered programs, invite authentic, culturally relevant content, in one of three languages: Italian, French and Spanish. Fundamental goals of the program include fostering an appreciation of and an understanding for other people, their culture, as well as their language.
Additionally, our High School hosts a Spanish for Heritage (Spanish) Speakers course, where students use their native language abilities to enhance their studies. Students will read and share in authentic Spanish language literature, thereby deepening an appreciation of culture and language.
The Seal of Biliteracy was an initiative started by Californians Together in 2008 to acknowledge and award hardworking bilingual and multilingual students. In 2011, it officially became legislation in California and now multiple states throughout the nation have implemented a statewide Seal of Biliteracy. On January 19, 2016, New Jersey became the 15th state to implement a legislated statewide Seal of Biliteracy. By achieving the Seal of Biliteracy, students demonstrate that they are able to speak, read, listen and write in two or more languages at a high level of proficiency.
II. Purpose
The Seal of Biliteracy seeks to:
Encourage students to study languages
Certify attainment of biliteracy
Provide employers with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills
Provide universities with a method to recognize and award academic credit to applicants seeking admission
Prepare students with 21st century skills
Recognize and promote second language instruction in public schools
Strengthen intergroup relationships, affirm the value of diversity, and honor the multiple cultures and language of a community
III. Why Seek the Seal
The Seal of Biliteracy opens up a sea of vast opportunities for those pursuing higher education or joining the workforce. As the world increasingly becomes more global, the need for employees with bilingual and multilingual skills has also been increasing.
Employers seek bilingual or multilingual individuals for reasons such as:
Accessing expanding markets;
Better serving customer needs;
Reaching particular and wider ranges of audiences; or
Opening a channel of communication with customers.
IV. Requirements
In order for students to be eligible to receive the Seal of Biliteracy, they must meet certain criteria:
Students must demonstrate a proficiency level of Intermediate Mid in a World Language.
Students must demonstrate proficiency in English by meeting State high school graduation requirements in English or its alternatives, including through State ELA assessments.