Seventeen Pine Bush High School seniors earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy at a recognition ceremony at Pine Bush High School on June 7.
The intent of the New York State Seal of Biliteracy is to encourage the study of languages, prepare students with 21st century skills, recognize the value of foreign and native language instruction in schools and affirm the value of diversity in a multilingual society.
Kristin Raucci, the district’s world language chairperson and Seal of Biliteracy coordinator, reminded those assembled of the value of communication and learning another language. “It allows us to share our essence with another human being and opens the door to new experiences.” The students will wear their medallion for graduation and the seal will be added to their diplomas.
Earning the seal takes intense study and presentation skills. The Seal of Biliteracy recognizes students who have attained a high level of proficiency in the three standards/modes of communication: interpretive, interpersonal and presentational, in one or more languages, in addition to English. The criteria to be awarded the Seal of Biliteracy is based on those established by the Board of Regents.
The students each prepared five pieces of work for their biliteracy portfolio. They chose a topic from those five and prepared a five-minute presentation, in Spanish of course. They answered questions on the topic, as well as questions about themselves, their studies, their future plans and any follow-up questions.
Mrs. Raucci thanked her fellow Seal of Biliteracy Committee members: Monica Morales, Daniel Edwards, Mari Shaffer and Kelly Cooke. They also honored Senora Morales, who is retiring.
The following students received the 2023 New York State Seal of Biliteracy:
- Valeria Acevedo Lamouth
- Yasmin Aguilar
- Jade Armstrong
- Marie Cerniglia
- Caitlin Druke
- Amanda Fox
- Margaret Hines
- Rebeca Lockward
- Megan Maragliano
- Kiera Masci
- Meryl Palinkas
- Harold Paredes
- Sydney Perez
- Ary Rodas
- Jana Shaban
- Jared Urena
- Colby Zupetz