Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Seal Of Biliteracy topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
District formalizes seal of biliteracy process, adds Lakota oral assessment option
Summary
District staff presented an updated district seal of biliteracy policy that uses state ELA/ACT measures and AP/ACTFL exams as pathways; staff added a Lakota oral proficiency option and said one student has applied for a Spanish AP pathway this year.
District staff described a formalized process for awarding the State of South Dakota’s Seal of Biliteracy to students who demonstrate proficiency in English and in one or more additional languages, including Lakota.
Bobbie Jo Donovan, district college and career manager, explained the mechanics of the program and the assessments the district will accept. For the English requirement the district will use the state English language arts assessment where available and will transition to ACT scores beginning with the 2025–26 school year. For a second language, students can demonstrate proficiency via AP exam scores, the ACTFL (Aptis/ACTFL or similar) assessment or a district‑validated Lakota reading, writing and oral proficiency assessment.
Why it matters: the seal signals language proficiency on students’ transcripts and diplomas, which can factor into postsecondary admissions and scholarship consideration. The district added an oral Lakota proficiency pathway after consultation with tribal education directors, staff said.
What staff reported: Donovan said one student had applied for the seal this year via a Spanish AP exam; the state distributes seals and the district expects to confirm AP scores in mid‑summer. Donovan said the state also provides a certificate and that the district will explore how candidates can be recognized at graduation (the AP score timeline can mean seals are confirmed after ceremonies).
State leadership and Lakota: district staff and Dr. Jen Roberts (TLI director) said South Dakota has adopted Native language standards and that the district has certified Lakota language instructors and local capacity to assess Lakota proficiency. Roberts told trustees that Rapid City is among a small number of districts in the nation prepared to offer a state‑recognized seal in a Native American language outside of reservation schools, because of the state standards and local teacher capacity.
Ending: Trustees were given the updated seal guidance and documentation; staff said the district will continue to expand outreach about the program and to monitor AP exam and ACTFL timelines so students who qualify can be recognized.
