April 2024
Dear Families, 
Wallingford Public Schools is excited to continue involvement in Connecticut’s Seal of Biliteracy. This newly established seal is in line with nearly 30 other states across the country. The designation associated with the seal attests to a student’s language ability in both English and a second language. The Seal of Biliteracy will be affixed to a student’s diploma and will also be noted on his/her final transcript, which will be sent to colleges/universities.
The Seal of Biliteracy is a testament to a student's dedication to building literacy skills in both English and a second language and how it relates to post-secondary education and the workforce. The Seal of Biliteracy may also help to ensure proper placement in the right level course at the college/university level. Additionally, students may receive college credit for work that they completed in high school; check with individual colleges/universities for specific information about this. Very often the ability to communicate in both English and at least one other language equates to a higher pay rate when students join the workforce.
In order to receive the Seal of Biliteracy students must:
- Be in 10th Grade or higher AND
- Complete the English language requirements from a Connecticut high school where the primary language of instruction is English AND
- Attain an Intermediate Mid proficiency* rating in a second language.
*Typically, speakers and writers at the Intermediate-Mid level are able to handle a variety of tasks in everyday social situations. Conversation and writing at this level is generally focused on exchanges necessary for survival in the target culture. These topics may include personal information related to self, family, home, daily activities, interests and personal preferences, as well as physical and social needs, such as food, shopping, travel, and lodging.
The seal is designed to enhance your child's educational credentials and will not impact your child's graduation status. If you have any questions about the Seal of Biliteracy, please visit http://www.ctcolt.org/pages/Seal_of_Biliteracy.asp or Todd Snyder at tsnyder@wallingfordschools.org
Sincerely,
Todd Snyder, WPS World Language Coordinator
