Medfield Public Schools Celebrates Language Achievement With State Seal of Biliteracy

Medfield Public Schools proudly announces the awarding of the State Seal of Biliteracy to 35 graduating seniors this year, recognizing exceptional proficiency in multiple languages. This marks the continuation of a valued tradition that began with the class of 2020, underscoring the district’s commitment to fostering linguistic diversity and cultural understanding.

Since its initial participation in 2019, Medfield has been awarded 172 state seals. The Seal of Biliteracy honors graduating students who have achieved high levels of language proficiency in both English and an additional language. To qualify, students must score at least 472 on the English Language Arts MCAS and attain an Intermediate High level in reading, writing, speaking and listening in their second language, as assessed by Department of Elementary and Secondary Education-approved measures.

This year’s seals recognize proficiency in various languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, Latin, French, Mandarin Chinese, Lithuanian, German and Japanese. Notably, four students were recognized with the Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction, demonstrating exceptionally high proficiency in their second language.

“The Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy not only celebrates students’ linguistic abilities but also emphasizes the importance of cultural diversity within our community,” said Ellen Toubman, department chair for World Languages and Cultures. “It prepares our students for a global society and provides them with skills highly valued in the labor market.”

The Seal of Biliteracy program, established by Massachusetts law in 2017, aims to:

• Encourage the study and mastery of languages
• Certify the attainment of biliteracy skills
• Recognize the value of language diversity
• Provide employers and universities with a method to identify and credit bilingual individuals
• Prepare students for success in the global marketplace
• Strengthen intergroup communication and honor multiple cultures within a community

Medfield Public Schools remains dedicated to encouraging students to develop high-level skills in multiple languages. The district recognizes that mastering a second language requires significant dedication and immersion.

For more information about the State Seal of Biliteracy program or the application process, please contact Ellen Toubman at 508-359-4367 ext. 11015 or visit the Medfield Public Schools website.