District News

The presentation of the New York State Seal of Biliteracy to 27 seniors at Lancaster High School was seen as more than an achievement on an academic resume, but as a way for students to be able to build bonds with others across language and culture.

“Knowing languages, a lot of times it opens up other windows and doors in their lives,” said Holly O’Connor, a world language teacher and the school’s Seal of Biliteracy coordinator. “You’re able to connect with so many people through developing these skills.”

The group of students were recognized for their work in languages such as Spanish, French, German, Polish, Ukrainian, Russian and Bulgarian. 

Students earn the seal by attaining and demonstrating a high-intermediate level of proficiency in English and at least one other World Language. Evidence of their language abilities is compiled from a number of sources including the completion of  coursework and projects as well as a culminating presentation delivered to a panel of judges. During the June 11 ceremony, photo collages showing the students’ projects were displayed for families and school officials. 

According to the New York State Department of Education, less than five percent of graduating seniors are awarded the seal.

From the group, three students were recognized for acquiring the seal in two additional languages on top of their English studies. Daryna Balanovych earned the seal in Ukrainian and Russian, Petar Stefanov earned it for Bulgarian and Spanish and Julia Valkanova earned it for Bulgarian and French. The three gave credit to members of their family for helping them connect to languages at home, and shared their excitement for how their language skills could benefit them in the future. 

For languages that are not taught in the school setting, school officials reach out to different community organizations and businesses to find high-level speakers to serve on panels evaluating students’ proficiency. O’Connor said the experience can be beneficial to both the students and the panelists.

“You learn so much more about their culture, and they appreciate the focus that’s been put into their language,” she said.

For more information about the New York State Seal of Biliteracy, visit https://www.nysed.gov/world-languages/new-york-state-seal-biliteracy-nyssb.