Seal of Biliteracy

The East Ramapo Central School District recognizes bilingualism and multiculturalism as a vital part of the skills needed for success in the 21st Century.  The ability to speak, understand, and write in more than one language offers students many academic advantages as well as opens the door for a variety of future careers.

The East Ramapo Central School District offers Spring Valley and Ramapo High School 11th and 12th grade students the unique opportunity to obtain a New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) on their High School Diplomas. High school students who demonstrate proficiency in English and a World Language may apply for the Seal of Biliteracy as early as their junior year. Since this program was introduced in the East Ramapo Central School District, approximately 300 bilingual students have earned their seal.

What is the NYSSB?  The NYSSB recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in English and one or more world languages. The intent of the NYSSB is to encourage the study of languages, to identify high school graduates with language and biliteracy skills for employers, to provide universities with additional information about applicants seeking admission and placement, to prepare students with twenty-first century skills, to recognize the value of language instruction, and to affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society. Successful candidates will earn three points in English and three points in each world language from a points matrix, which includes course grades, national and state exams, transcripts, and culminating projects. The NYSSB takes the form of a Seal on the student's diploma and a medallion worn at graduation.