SOUTH EASTON — Thirty students from Southeastern Regional Vocational Technical High School earned the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy this past school year by demonstrating proficiency in both English and a second language — a credential recognized by colleges and employers as a mark of distinction.
This marks a significant achievement for Southeastern, as only one student had previously earned the seal in 2020. The 2024-25 honorees include 22 seniors and eight juniors who demonstrated advanced language skills in Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Dutch, Bengali and Albanian.
The Seal of Biliteracy, awarded through the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), recognizes students who attain high functional and academic proficiency in English and at least one other language. To earn the designation, students must pass the English Language Arts MCAS and a standardized assessment of world languages, such as the STAMP test, which evaluates reading, writing, listening and speaking skills.
According to DESE, 13,256 Massachusetts high school graduates have earned the Seal of Biliteracy since 2019, including 3,816 in 2024. A total of 245 public school districts, charter schools and regional schools are authorized to award the Seal of Biliteracy, making up 77% of schools and school districts in the state.
Assessment Administrator Noah Symynkywicz hosted an end-of-year ceremony celebrating the students’ accomplishments. Each student received a certificate, and seniors were also given special cords to wear at graduation. The event included a powerful multilingual component, as eight students gave speeches in their first language while English translations were displayed for the audience.
“This was a very successful year for our Seal of Biliteracy program,” Symynkywicz said. “We had such a motivated and talented group of seniors graduate, and our juniors are sure to continue this momentum in the years ahead.”
Symynkywicz told the students who earned the Seal of Biliteracy that their language skills will open doors for them, providing them opportunities for advancement throughout their careers.
“Why do we care about language? Because language is power and opportunity,” Symynkywicz said. “I don’t need to tell you just how many more jobs open when you know a second language. Employers not only want their employees to have a second language for practical application, but also because being bilingual means that you have a different view of the world. Our bilingual students have a foot not only in the reality of Southeastern’s education system, but you also have an international perspective. They are able to see and understand two worlds, a power that is not to be underestimated.”
In addition to enhancing a student’s academic record, the Seal of Biliteracy may qualify them for college credit or advanced placement in language programs at participating institutions.
“Along with congratulating all 30 of these students, we also congratulate our English Language Development and World Language staff members who have worked diligently with these students to ensure they have the skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening to earn this incredible honor,” said Vice Principal of Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment Catie Tuccinardi.
According to DESE, 13 Massachusetts public institutions of higher education offer credit or advanced course placement to students who have earned the Seal of Biliteracy.
Superintendent Holly McClanan praised the students for their drive and dedication.
“I’d like to commend all of our students for their commitment to mastering two languages,” Superintendent McClanan said. “This is an amazing achievement. Biliteracy is a highly valued skill that will unlock so many doors for these students in today’s interconnected global society and job market. Congratulations to all of our Seal of Biliteracy recipients on this outstanding accomplishment.”
###
Discover more from John Guilfoil Public Relations
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.