Three Ravena Coeymans Selkirk High School seniors earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy.
The New York State Board of Regents awarded Nana Anto-Asare, Khalia Robinson and Sulamita Voronko with the distinction earlier this year after they had each provided their proficiency in English and one or more world languages.
The Board of Regents acknowledges the importance of being biliterate in today’s global society. It highlights the hard work and achievement of students, and encourages students to pursue language study while in school, including the continued development of one’s home language.
Students are measured against a stringent list of criteria before the seal is awarded. Some of those requirements include completing coursework in English and a world language with an average of 85% or better; completing a Bilingual Education Program or a Home Language Arts Program with an average of 85% or better; earning a set score on approved assessments in English and a world language; demonstrating successful completion of coursework in a foreign nation; and completing and presenting a Culminating Project in English and/or a world language that demonstrates proficiency in interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational communication.
Since the Board of Regents adopted the New York State Seal of Biliteracy in 2012, it has been awarded to over 24,900 students. This award is denoted by a seal affixed to the student’s diploma, a notation on the student’s high school transcript, and a medallion that students may wear at graduation.