SEEKONK — Seekonk High School is proud to announce that 29 seniors recently participated in the Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy Assessment.
The Class of 2026 is the first class from Seekonk to take the assessment, which honors students who demonstrate proficiency in both English and a second language — a credential recognized by colleges and employers as a mark of distinction.
“We are incredibly proud of our Seekonk High School students as they participate in the Seal of Biliteracy for the first time,” said Principal Dr. William V. Whalen III. “Their commitment to learning and embracing multiple languages reflects not only academic excellence, but a deep appreciation for diverse cultures and global connection.”
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.
Students who are awarded the Seal may qualify for college credit or advanced placement in language programs at participating institutions of higher education.
“I decided to take the Seal of Biliteracy test to have a chance to have written proof that my seven total years of language education were worth it,” said senior Gabriella Gego. “I am 75% Azorean and 25% mainland Portuguese, so studying the language of my ancestors was beyond important to me. Additionally, in a world where people are becoming increasingly disconnected from each other, language learning removes that barrier by providing students the opportunity to understand other cultures at a deeper level. I sincerely hope that the Seal of Biliteracy test and the language learning that backs it persists for many years to come in SPS.”
Seekonk students took the assessment on April 27.
“Coming back from spring break isn’t always easy, but our SHS students showed real dedication jumping right into the Seal of Biliteracy exam at 7:25 a.m. on Monday morning!” said Deanna Marinucci, Spanish teacher and World Language Curriculum, Instruction and Assessment Leader. “It speaks volumes to how committed they are to their learning and it truly highlights their discipline and pride in being bilingual. Kudos to our WARRIORS!”
The following students participated in the assessment on April 27:
- Selena Botelho
- Annika Bzdula
- Mia Cabral
- Lucy Campognone
- Giana Cash
- Emily Cloutier
- Alivia Cosme
- Lydia Craft
- Liana DaFonseca
- Paige Duggan
- Kara Faria
- Gabriella Gago
- Cameron Hagan
- Tiago Jorge
- Jamilet Landaverde
- Chloe Machado
- Lily McCormick
- Zoe Osmanski
- Sagun Patel
- Brielle Placido
- Yasmim Rodrigues Pereira
- Logan Sawyer
- Alexandra Shields
- Adrianna Simas
- Jason Surette
- Alecia Tavares
- Ryleigh Ventola
- Jackson Whitford
- Lucas Zonfrillo
“I am so proud of the students and staff who have worked together to launch the inaugural year of our participation in this prestigious opportunity,” said Superintendent Rebecca Kidwell. “I hope we can expand the program to a strong percentage of SHS students, both those who learn a language in school with us and those who come to high school with language literacy from home.”
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