Linn-Mar Students Earn the Seal of Biliteracy
The Seal of Biliteracy is a prestigious recognition awarded to students who demonstrate proficiency in two or more languages by the time they graduate. It serves as an official mark of linguistic achievement.
Linn-Mar has this opportunity available to students who have worked hard to master another language. To qualify for the Seal, a student must have proficiency in two or more languages. A student is proficient in English if they score 18 or better on the ACT or have 561 or higher on the ISASP. This information is used in combination with specialized tests of second-language proficiency to establish biliteracy. Tests are available to students in levels 4 and 5 French and Spanish, AP French, and Intermediate I and II Spanish. While testing students at lower levels is possible, it is not advised. Additionally, tests are available to native speakers of other languages, such as Chinese, Korean, and German, as long as they also demonstrate proficiency in English. Students who earn a 3 or higher on an AP exam in a non-English language also qualify for the Seal.
In 2024, thirty-eight Linn-Mar students earned the Seal of Biliteracy, including 19 who demonstrated proficiency in French, 19 in Spanish, 1 in Bangla, and 1 in Hindi.
By earning the Seal of Biliteracy, students not only validate their language proficiency but also prepare themselves for a future in an increasingly globalized world. For many, this recognition is more than an academic milestone—it’s a gateway to cultural connection, career opportunities, and personal growth.
The assessment itself is comprehensive, evaluating students across multiple areas of communication. It consists of four sections:
- Interpretive Reading
- Presentational Writing
- Interpretive Listening
- Interpersonal Listening/Speaking
Linn-Mar students continue to excel in these assessments, consistently scoring above the national average in Spanish and French. Below you can find how Linn-Mar compares to the national average.
Linn-Mar scores compared to the national average in French.
Linn-Mar scores compared to the national average in Spanish.
How The Seal of Biliteracy Has Impacted Students
For Linn-Mar High School student Kylie Rickels, earning the Seal of Biliteracy was a goal she set in eighth grade when she first began studying Spanish. From the moment she started learning the language, she was captivated by the idea of fluency and the ability to communicate beyond her native English.
“I set a goal to earn the biliteracy seal when I first heard about it in Spanish 1,” Kylie recalled. “Taking the assessment felt like the culmination of five years of work, and it encouraged me to continue learning languages in my spare time.”
Earning the Seal of Biliteracy was more than just an academic accomplishment for Kylie—it became an integral part of her future plans. As she pursues a career in pediatric oncology, she recognizes the vital role that language plays in patient care.
“Being able to communicate with patients and their families in their preferred language will help them feel more comfortable and ensure they understand diagnoses and treatment plans,” she said.
She also plans to study abroad, an opportunity she believes was made more attainable thanks to her language skills. Recently, she was accepted into the University of Tulsa’s International Science and Language program, where she will continue combining her love for science and languages.