New Hampshire Students Recognized for Biliteracy

CONCORD- The New Hampshire Department of Education is proud to announce the implementation of the NH State Seal of Biliteracy award program. Starting this spring the state of New Hampshire will recognize high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages, in addition to English. With the support and approval of the State Board of Education, New Hampshire students who earn this distinction will now be recognized with an official state seal on their high school diploma, as well as a state issued award certificate. 

Many colleges and universities throughout the country recognize the Seal of Biliteracy and offer world language credits to students who earn this distinction. Globally, bilingualism equates to a higher pay rate and more career opportunities in the US and abroad for students joining the workforce. 

“The Seal of Biliteracy is a very prestigious academic recognition program and I am proud to be able to offer this to our students,” said Frank Edelblut, Commissioner of Education. “Literacy in two or more languages sets these students apart and increases their marketability both in the workforce as well as in higher education programs.”  

“The NH Association of World Language Teachers, in partnership with the statewide EL educator’s network, has worked with the national Seal of Biliteracy committee and the NHDOE to make this possible. We hope the program will continue to build momentum in the coming years to highlight the multilingual assets of NH students,” said Wendy Perron, EL & Title III Consultant, NH Department of Education.  

To achieve the distinction students must:

• Complete all of the English language requirements for high school graduation 
• Demonstrate proficiency in a world language through one of 23 approved world language assessments, including the Advanced Placement (with a score of 4 or higher), the International Baccalaureate exam (with a score of 4 or higher), or through a portfolio demonstration.  

Schools or districts interested in implementing the award can find more information about the program on the NH Seal of Biliteracy website.