Newburyport Public Schools participates in the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy program.
The State Seal of Biliteracy is earned by students who demonstrate proficiency in two or more languages by high school graduation (as measured by state tests). We are pleased to participate in this program that promotes the tangible benefits of being bilingual.
The State Seal of Biliteracy takes the form of a seal that appears on the transcript or diploma of the graduating senior and is a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.
NPS CONTACTS
The State Seal of Biliteracy...
- Encourages students to study and master languages
- Certifies attainment of biliteracy skills
- Recognizes the value of language diversity
- Provides employers with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills
- Provides universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants for attainment of high-level skills in languages
- Prepares students with skills that will benefit them in the labor market and the global society
- Strengthens intergroup communication and honors the multiple cultures and languages in a community
Requirements
Seal of Biliteracy
- Earn a score of 472 or higher on the Grade 10 ELA, MCAS
- Demonstrate a high level of proficiency in a world language by attaining a minimum score equivalent to Intermediate-High on an assessment approved by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education, and
- Satisfy all other graduation requirements
Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction
- Earn a score of 501 or higher on the Grade 10 ELA MCAS
- Demonstrate a proficiency level of Advanced Low or higher in a Department-approved world language assessment, and
- Satisfy all other graduation requirements.
Please note that we will be offering the Avant STAMP Assessment to Newburyport High School in early 2023 at no cost to you. If your child is interested in participating in the assessment to determine their eligibility for the Seal of Biliteracy, we will be sending out more information later in the fall.
We look forward to honoring the language expertise and diversity in our district through this initiative.