Lincoln-Way Students Honored At Seal Of Biliteracy Celebration

FRANKFORT, IL — More than 150 Lincoln-Way students were honored at a celebration of biliteracy on April 23, the District shared in a news release.

The event recognized students who earned either the Seal of Biliteracy or the Commendation toward the Seal of Biliteracy, both of which require a high level of skill in English and a second language.

"We are so proud of all our students at Lincoln-Way for their amazing accomplishment in language learning! By qualifying to earn the Seal of Biliteracy, a student demonstrates their passion, ability, and determination to communicate in a second language," said Laura Rycyna, World Language department chair at Lincoln-Way Central.

According to the District, the Seal is officially acknowledged once a student graduates and helps them to stand out when applying for college, scholarships and employment.

"This award would not be possible without the wonderful English Language and World Language teachers across the district and at our feeder schools. We are grateful for their expertise, energy, and enthusiasm as they have helped foster a love of language among our students. It is very common for graduates of Lincoln-Way to continue their language studies at the universities and beyond – whether through their courses, a study abroad opportunity, or in their professional job. We are thrilled to have instilled this desire within our students and wish them the best in their future endeavors," Rycyna said in a release.

By earning the Seal of Biliteracy, a student is demonstrating that they have a proficiency level of “Intermediate High” in 2 languages – English and a second language. To earn the award, a student must meet requirements in both languages.

For English, a student must score 480+ on the evidence-based reading and writing portion of the SAT or have a 21+ composite score on the ACT.

For the second language requirement, a student must earn a 4+ on the AP exam in the language or have an “Intermediate High” composite score on the STAMP exam, which assesses a student’s language skills in listening, reading, speaking and writing, the District said.

To receive the commendation, the English requirements for this are the same, but the language requirement is a 3+ on the AP exam or “Intermediate Low” on the STAMP exam. This recognition is also awarded to English Learner students who demonstrate a proficiency in English as well as their first language.