Bolingbrook and Romeoville High Schools celebrate 2025 Seal of Biliteracy recipients

Under the warm glow of the auditorium lights, the Valley View CUSD 365U Board Meeting on May 12, 2025, celebrated a significant milestone for its students—the awarding of the Seal of Biliteracy. This prestigious recognition, presented by the world language department chairs from Bolingbrook and Romeoville High Schools, highlights the achievements of students who have demonstrated proficiency in both English and another language.

Jenna Wilkinson and Rachel Milligan, the department chairs, expressed their pride in the 32 graduates receiving this honor. The Seal of Biliteracy is not just a badge of achievement; it opens doors for students in their future academic and professional endeavors. Recipients will have this distinction noted on their transcripts, potentially earning them college credits and enhancing their employability with higher wages.

To qualify for the Seal, students must meet specific benchmarks, including a minimum score on the SAT for English proficiency and demonstrate skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in another language. The ceremony featured students proudly introducing themselves and showcasing their unique "punny" shirts, a light-hearted touch to a momentous occasion.

As the students took the stage, each shared their language of proficiency, ranging from Spanish and French to Arabic and Polish. The atmosphere was filled with applause and celebration, recognizing the hard work and dedication these young individuals have shown in achieving biliteracy.

The event underscored the importance of language skills in today’s global society, reinforcing the district's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment. With the Seal of Biliteracy, these students are not only equipped with valuable skills but are also prepared to thrive in an interconnected world. As the evening concluded, the board and attendees left with a sense of pride in the accomplishments of the Class of 2025, eager to see how these young scholars will shape their futures.