Calif. looks to graduate more students with civic seal
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University districts in California are qualified for a share of $5 million in grants by means of the California Serves Software. The work is aimed at encouraging much more students to earn the State Seal of Civic Engagement, which certifies that pupils have an understanding of rules of democracy, the US Structure and the condition Structure.
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Resource url The California Department of Education has proposed a statewide program to create a new “Civic Seal of Biliteracy” for high school graduates, recognizing those proficient in English and at least one other language. The seal has been proposed as a way to incentivize multilingualism in the state and promote the cultural and economic benefits of language learning.
California already recognizes the Seal of Biliteracy and encourages students to recognize the value of bilingualism by rewarding those with language proficiency with a diploma and special credential. The proposal goes one step further, and seeks to create a statewide civic seal that would specifically recognize students who achieve dual-language fluency and/or literacy.
With the proposed seal, students would receive a “Civic Seal” sticker to put on their diplomas, evidencing that they possess the skills to communicate in two or more languages and have a better understanding of our diverse society. To be eligible to receive the seal, the Department of Education has proposed that students demonstrate proficiency in one language through a foreign language class and another language via power standards-based assessments.
Cultural and economic benefits of multilingualism and dual-language literacy have been documented in numerous studies. Bilingualism can provide students with improved job prospects and marketable skills, fostering economic opportunities within the global market. In addition, language immersion can open up new cultural dimensions and understandings to reduce prejudice and confusion, leading to greater understanding and empathy.
The Department of Education hopes that the proposal for the statewide Civic Seal of Biliteracy will incentivize students to seek further language learning and create educational equity for English language learners. The proposed program is part of the state’s efforts to promote language proficiency, better prepare students in the workforce, and create positive changes in our diverse society.
