Forty-nine Harvard High School seniors will graduate this spring with the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy on their diplomas, a 40 percent increase over last year.
The Seal is an official state recognition that a student has achieved proficiency in English and at least one other language. It is recorded on a diploma and transcript and recognized by Illinois public colleges and universities, which grant foreign language credit to students who earn it.
For Harvard Community Unit School District 50, where English and Spanish are both woven into the fabric of daily life, the number carries particular meaning. Many of this year's recipients started in the district's Dual Language Program in kindergarten. Earning the Seal as seniors is the culmination of more than a decade of hard work.
"Being bilingual is part of who I am, and earning the Seal of Biliteracy makes me proud of my journey and my family," said senior Natali Hernandez, who has been Dual Language since kindergarten. "It has also opened doors for my future."
The growth in Seal recipients reflects a districtwide commitment to bilingual education. Dual language and general education teachers, bilingual program staff and building leaders have worked together across grade levels to set high expectations in both languages and make sure students have what they need to meet them.
“The increase in our Seal of Biliteracy awards this year reflects a true collective effort,” said Monica Diaz, Director of Bilingual and Dual Language Programs. “From our interactive preschool classrooms to the engaging instruction at Harvard High School, our teachers continue to uphold high expectations in both languages while providing meaningful support for students. Their dedication has created the conditions for students to thrive and achieve great things.”
D50 continues to refine and strengthen its bilingual programming to meet the needs of its students and community. This year, the district launched the Pathway to the Seal of Biliteracy for fifth- and eighth-grade students, recognizing those who are on track toward bilingual proficiency before they begin high school. Students who meet the criteria receive a medal at their end-of-year ceremony.