The Washington State Seal of Biliteracy program is a prestigious recognition for high school graduates who demonstrate advanced proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more world languages, in addition to English. The Olympia School District is proud to honor language as a valuable asset and believes that multilingualism opens doors to many opportunities. Through the Seal of Biliteracy Program, OSD encourages students to develop language skills that enhance their cultural awareness and prepares them with a competitive edge in the global job market. This recognition fosters a deeper understanding of diverse cultures, broadens career possibilities and prepares students to succeed in an increasingly interconnected world.
"Being proficient in multiple languages is a valuable asset that we honor and support within the Olympia School District," said Heather Randolph, Director of Multilingual/Categorical Programs. "Students who earn the Washington State Seal of Biliteracy not only showcase their skills in a language other than English, but also embody the core principles of the 6 Student Outcomes that define and inspire our district's mission."
For the 2024-25 school year, over 60 students from the OSD, including 20 eighth graders across all four middle schools and Olympia Regional Learning Academy (ORLA), are participating in this program. These students are working toward earning the Seal of Biliteracy in various languages, including Spanish, Samoan, Vietnamese, Arabic, Chinese, Russian, American Sign Language (ASL) and more. This language diversity highlights the district's broad cultural and linguistic richness.
“Taking the Standards-based Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP) test and pursuing the Seal of Biliteracy was one of the best decisions I made,” said Laila Lopez Molina, a ninth-grade student at Capital High School. “When I first took the eighth-grade test, I didn’t fully understand the benefits, but soon realized it earned me both high school and college credits. I was amazed that, as an 8th grader, I could earn high school and college credits while still in middle school. More importantly, it has opened my eyes to how being bilingual can help me contribute to my community and boost my resume. I’ve learned that many jobs seek individuals who speak different dialects to assist clients who don’t speak English, and this is something I know I want to be part of, especially if it means helping others. This experience has allowed me to make connections, understand my impact and set me up for future success."
Students who earn the Seal of Biliteracy will receive a medal to wear at graduation, have the achievement reflected on their high school transcript, and proudly display the Seal on their diploma. This prestigious recognition is typically awarded at the end of senior year, symbolizing a significant milestone in the student's academic journey.
To earn the Seal of Biliteracy, students must complete two key steps:
Step 1: Demonstrating Proficiency in a Language Other Than English
Students must show proficiency in listening, reading, speaking and writing in a language other than English by meeting one of the following criteria:
- Take an approved Proficiency Assessment and earn four competency-based credits
- Earn four class time credits and pass an approved Proficiency Assessment
Step 2: Demonstrating Proficiency in English
To demonstrate their proficiency in English, students must meet all graduation pathway requirements in English Language Arts (ELA).
“Language plays a powerful role in bridging cultural divides,” shared Marie Rubin, Olympia High School World Languages/German Teacher. “By exploring how different cultures express themselves, we unlock deeper understanding and empathy, fostering genuine connections. This awareness illuminates why misunderstandings may occur between us, sparks curiosity, and helps dismantle unconscious biases. Learning a language goes beyond mastering grammar, syntax and vocabulary; it’s about opening one’s heart and mind, discovering shared humanity and finding common ground across cultures.”
The Seal of Biliteracy acknowledges students' linguistic abilities and sets them apart as highly skilled individuals ready to engage in a diverse, multicultural world. The Olympia School District empowers students to enhance their future academic and professional opportunities by offering this program.
Upcoming Standards-Based Measurement of Proficiency (STAMP) testing dates:
- Capital HS: March 18, 2025
- Olympia HS: March 19, 2025
- Middle Schools: Eighth graders need to sign up with their counselor for testing in March
- ORLA and Avanti HS (by appointment): Contact Heather Randolph in the OSD Teaching and Learning Department at [email protected]