English-Language Learners / NYSSB

The Board of Education believes that students who, by reason of foreign birth or ancestry, have limited English proficiency will be more effective learners of both the language and the curriculum if they receive instruction in both their native language and English.  The district will therefore take steps to identify ELL students and provide ELL students with an appropriate program of either Bilingual Education or English as a New Language.

New York State Seal of Biliteracy

The New York State Seal of Biliteracy 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.  The “Gold – Veteran” badge is awarded to school districts who have offered the Seal of Biliteracy for 5 or more years.