Herkimer Central School District students completed their final requirement in earning the Seal of Biliteracy on Friday, June 6.
They conducted an oral presentation to a panel of experts and were then presented with certificates at a celebration hosted by Herkimer-Fulton-Hamilton-Otsego BOCES.
The New York State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in English and one or more world languages. The intent of the NYSSB is to encourage the study of languages, to identify high school graduates with language and biliteracy skills for employers, to provide universities with additional information about applicants seeking admission and placement, to prepare students with 21st century skills, to recognize the value of language instruction, and to affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society. Successful candidates will earn three points in English and three points in each world language from a points matrix, which includes course grades, national and state exams, transcripts and culminating projects. The NYSSB takes the form of a seal on the student’s diploma and a medallion worn at graduation.
Pictured, from left, front: Madison Marusic, Sophia Blais, McKenna Gargas, Savannah Manno and Bianca Barreto. Back: Zachary Petucci, Michael Miller, Christopher Farrell, Sydney Bell, Vanessa Verenich, Logan Pullman and Anna Verenich.