Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Seal Of Biliteracy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Goshen High describes Seal of Biliteracy process as interest rises among seniors
Summary
Coordinators outlined New York State Seal of Biliteracy criteria, assessment components and expanding student interest in languages beyond French and Spanish.
GOSHEN, N.Y. — Natalie Pollock, coordinator of the New York State Seal of Biliteracy at Goshen High School, presented requirements and growth in student interest in the program at the Sept. 15 Board of Education meeting.
Pollock explained that the Seal recognizes graduating students who are proficient in English and another language. To earn the Seal, students need three points in both English and a world language. Pollock outlined how students can earn English points — for example, an 80 or higher on the ELA Regents exam, a 3 or higher on AP Composition, or an 85 average in specified English classes — and described the world-language assessments and project requirements for earning language points.
Pollock said the district has expanded language options this year beyond French and Spanish to include Polish, German, Russian, Chinese, Urdu, Haitian Creole and Yoruba. She reported that the program began in 2013 and that Goshen is in its third year offering the district pathway: two years ago eight students earned the Seal, last year 12 students plus two others completed projects, and this year more than 40 seniors have expressed interest.
A student who completed the Seal described the process as accessible and supportive, with regular mentor meetings and a panel presentation. Board members commended staff for expanding world-language opportunities and supporting a broader range of languages.
No board action was taken specifically on Seal administration during the meeting.
