Seal of Biliteracy
The Missouri Seal of Biliteracy is an award to recognize a student who has attained proficiency in English and one or more other world language(s) before high school graduation. The recognition of attaining biliteracy becomes a part of the high school transcript for these students and serves to certify attainment of biliteracy for the community, employers and universities.
The Missouri Seal is meant to
- encourage the study of a second language;
- recognize, promote, and praise students for their accomplishment;
- value diversity;
- provide employers with a means of identifying bilingual employees;
- provide universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants;
- prepare students with 21st century skills that will benefit them in a global economy and society; and
- strengthen relationships and honor the cultures and languages in a community.
Apply for the MO Seal of Biliteracy
Applications for the MO Seal of Biliteracy open at the beginning of the school year. Students must apply before the deadline to qualify for the award.
Benefits to Earning a Seal of Biliteracy
- Certifies attainment of biliteracy to employers, universities, and the community
- Provides for possible university incentives
- Provides official documentation on high school transcript
- Offers recognition at high school graduation ceremony
- Gives special recognition from the district including a certificate and a graduation cord.
Seal of Biliteracy Eligibility
The Missouri Seal is earned by graduating high school students.
Native English speaking students may acquire the second language through traditional world language classrooms, community-based programs, at home, worldly experiences or any other method attempted by the student.
English learners (ELs) and other heritage language learners are also eligible.
ALL students acquiring any language in addition to English is a potential awardee.
Eligibility Requirements
LSR7 High School Building Sponsors
- Meghan Forbes: Lee’s Summit High School
- Hannah Brizuela: Lee’s Summit North High School
- Anthony Dabalos: Lee’s Summit West High School
MO Universities offering College Credit for Seal of Biliteracy
- Evangel University
- Missouri State University
- Missouri Southern State University
- Northwest Missouri State University
- Ozark Technical Community College
- Truman State
- University of Central Missouri
- William Woods University