The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB)

     The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) recognizes 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.  The intent of the NYSSB is to encourage the study of languages; identify high school graduates with language and biliteracy skills for employers; provide universities with additional information about applicants seeking admission; prepare students with twenty-first century skills; recognize the value of foreign and native language instruction in schools; and affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society.

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Letter from the Deputy Commissioner

NYS Seal of Biliteracy Handbook  The NYSSB handbook will help districts and schools with  the implementation process, including procedures, criteria, questions and answers, required forms, and resources. 

District Notification Form By January of each year, a district will inform the NYS Education Department of its intent to establish a Seal of Biliteracy program in its school(s).    Required in this form will be committee member information as well as program details (e.g. assessment rubrics).

Seal Image Request Form  At the end of the school year, districts will request a digital copy of the Seal image that will be placed on a student's diploma.  Along with this form, districts will be required to complete the End-of-Year Data Form (below).

End-of-Year Data Form  This form will be used to submit data on students earning the Seal.  It must be completed in order to receive the Digital Seal Image.

Criteria for Earning the Seal  In order to earn the NYS Seal of Biliteracy, students must demonstrate proficiency in English and another language based on criteria set by the NYS Education Department.

NYS Board of Regents Consent Item