Students get certificates in literacy
BALLSTON SPA, N.Y. » More than 65 graduating students in the Ballston Spa High School Class of 2017 recently qualified for the New York State Seal of Biliteracy and will receive the seal on their diploma at graduation ceremonies on June 22 at the Saratoga Performing Arts Center.
The state Education Department established the NYSSB in 2012 to recognize 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. It is the second year the Ballston Spa High School has provided the opportunity for students to earn the NYSSB with over 70 students qualifying in the Class of 2016.
The NYSSB is awarded by the Commissioner of Education to students who meet criteria established by the Board of Regents and who attend schools in districts that voluntarily agree to participate in the program. Starting in 2016, the NYSSB is affixed to the high school diploma and transcript of graduating students attaining the NYSSB.
“We are thrilled to be offering this credential to our qualifying students from the Class of 2017 and for years to come,” said Joseph P. Dragone, superintendent of the Ballston Spa Central School District. “We offer many advanced courses in English and in World Languages through AP, IB and with our university and college partners, and this new designation will further support and credential our students who excel in this area as they look to postsecondary study.”
The State Education Department further notes that the intent of the NYSSB is to: affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society; 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 twentyfirst century skills; and recognize the value of world and home language instruction in schools.
The recognition of attaining biliteracy becomes part of the high school transcript and diploma for qualifying students and is a statement of their accomplishment for future employers and college admission. Additional information on the NYSSB is located on the New York State Seal of Biliteracy website at http://sealof biliteracy.org/ new-york.