Seniors graduating from St. Joseph School District high schools will now have the opportunity to earn the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy.

According to a press release, the seal will be awarded to graduating high school students in districts with a DESE-approved program, who have demonstrated achievement in English, a Language Other Than English and sociocultural competence. All Missouri students studying any of the world’s languages are potential Seal candidates.

“By joining other districts in this new initiative, our graduates will be on the path toward earning free college credit and obtaining a minor in a foreign language. This opportunity is an excellent complement to existing college and career readiness programming in our district,” said Dr. Chris Hubbuch, Director of Secondary Education.

Seniors graduating from the St. Joseph School District could earn this seal on their diploma this year, as long as they have met the requirements. Earning the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy places a student on a pathway toward earning 12 hours of college credit at select universities who have endorsed the credential. Participating institutions include Missouri State University, Missouri Southern University, and the University of Central Missouri, with more institutions expected in the coming year.

To meet the requirements for the seal, students will have to obtain a 3.0 GPA in English classes and receive a “proficient” on the English II EOC. They will also need to demonstrate intermediate to mid-level proficiency in another language, scoring a 4.0 on ACCESS for ELL students. Additionally, they will need to complete a minimum of two activities for the socio-cultural component in order to receive the standard seal. These activities include service projects, tutoring, reflection and research, multicultural events, and travel.

For more information on the Missouri Seal of Biliteracy, click here.