Award Ceremony to Recognize Students Who Have Mastered Multiple Languages
DENVER – Tripling the number of last year’s recipients, more than 400 Denver Public Schools (DPS) students will graduate from high school with a demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one other language. At a recognition ceremony on Wednesday, May 17 at George Washington High School, DPS leaders will acknowledge these students with the Seal of Biliteracy.
In order to receive the honorary Seal, students must meet the Seal of Biliteracy criteria. Students must complete all requirements for graduation, exhibit proficiency in English by passing one of five available tests and demonstrate proficiency in one or more languages other than English by passing a specified exam or courses of study. For languages with no approved standardized test, the student may complete an oral and written examination to demonstrate proficiency. The Seal will appear on the transcript and diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.
DPS has been at the forefront of equity by offering the award to formally acknowledge students’ biliteracy, uniquely preparing future leaders with real-world skills in an increasingly multilingual job market. Languages from American Sign Language to Romanian to Kiziwgua to Spanish will be represented. Families, community members and dignitaries will be in attendance, including Commissioner of Education Katy Anthes, State Representative Chris Hansen, State Representative Susan Lontine, Consul General of Mexico Berenice Rendón Talavera, Consul General of El Salvador José Manuel Castillo Perez Gomez, Consul General of Perú Eduardo Barandiarán and Consul General of Guatemala Juan Fernando Valei Reyna.
Interviews in multiple languages available.
- What: More than 400 DPS Students Awarded the Seal of Biliteracy
- Who: DPS students, educators, community leaders and government representatives
- When: 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, May 17
- Where: George Washington High School, 655 S. Monaco Pkwy.