RECOGNIZING LANGUAGE EDUCATORS & LEARNERS
There are two ways that Illinois language learners can document, recognize, and certify their language skills. The first recognition is for High School seniors who test at the Intermediate-High (ACTFL scale) or above level AND whose district applies for the Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy on their behalf.
The second Global Seal of Biliteracy option is for ANY bilingual (or multilingual) of any age who tests at one of their three certification levels: Intermediate-Mid, Advanced-Low, or Advanced-High (ACTFL scale) or B1, B2, or C1 (CEFR scale). The Global Seal of Biliteracy offers individual and group application processes.
The second Global Seal of Biliteracy option is for ANY bilingual (or multilingual) of any age who tests at one of their three certification levels: Intermediate-Mid, Advanced-Low, or Advanced-High (ACTFL scale) or B1, B2, or C1 (CEFR scale). The Global Seal of Biliteracy offers individual and group application processes.
Illinois State Seal of Biliteracy
The Illinois Seal of Biliteracy was founded in 2013 and is awarded to high school seniors who demonstrate proficiency in English and another language via testing or a portfolio submission. English requirements are a score of 480 or above on the SAT and students must demonstrate an Intermediate-High level of proficiency on the ACTFL scale in another language.
Illinois public universities award college credit to State Seal of Biliteracy Recipients. For students who reach the Intermediate-Low level of proficiency, a Commendation can be awarded. Participating districts must apply annually via SIS and provide ISBE with annual reporting. |
Global Seal of BiliteracyThe Global Seal of Biliteracy is an international digitally-shareable credential that conveys proficiency with language skills in two or more languages. Available in over 135 languages, this credential offers a competitive advantage for bilingual individuals by helping them earn scholarships, higher pay, advanced placement, increased study abroad opportunities and so much more. The Global Seal is available to all ages at three levels of certification beginning at Intermediate-Mid and is FREE (cost of testing not included). Pathway awards and university college credit are available. ISBE accepts the Global Seal of Biliteracy at the Working and Professional Fluency as a test waiver for teacher certification.
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Seal of Biliteracy Resources
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Illinois State Board of Education "Seal of Biliteracy" Press Release
National Public Radio: "On the High School Diploma: A 'Bilingual Stamp' of Approval" April 21, 2015.
IDEAS THAT INNOVATE - WE Global Network. State and Local policy links to the "Seal of Biliteracy." Available as a PDF file. 2019 Full Report: Making Languages Our Business
Bilingual college grads are in demand, says NIU survey
Demand for Bilingual Workers More than Doubled in 5 years, New Report Shows http://www.newamericaneconomy.org/press-release/demand-for-bilingual-workers-more-than-doubled-in-5-years-new-report-shows/ |
Education Weekly Blog Post - "How the State Seal of Biliteracy is a Game Changer" by Linda L Egnatz
ICTFL Panelist Linda Egnatz at ISBE Seal of Biliteracy Symposium
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