Seal of Biliteracy

Beginning in the 2018-2019 school year, Wauconda CUSD 118 began to award the State of Illinois Seal of Biliteracy in recognition of Wauconda High School students who have studied and attained proficiency in one or more languages by their high school graduation. Students who earn the Illinois Seal of Biliteracy will have it indicated on their transcript. As of July 22, 2016, all Illinois public universities will accept the State Seal of Biliteracy as equivalent to 2 years of foreign language coursework taken during high school if a student's high school transcript indicates that he or she received the State Seal of Biliteracy.

Benefits of the Seal of Biliteracy:

• Seal of Biliteracy will be noted on the student’s high school transcript and diploma

• Earn college credit! Students will receive 2 years of college credit in language at any state school in Illinois.

• It certifies attainment of biliteracy skills.

• It recognizes the value of language and diversity.

• It provides employers with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills.

• It provides universities with a method to recognize and give credit to applicants for the attainment of high-level skills in multiple languages.

• It prepares students with 21st-century skills that will benefit them in the labor market and the global society.

• It strengthens intergroup relationships and honors the multiple cultures and languages in a community.

Wauconda CUSD 118 students are eligible to earn the Seal of Biliteracy if a combination of two of the following conditions is met:

The Seal is affixed to the diploma and designated on the transcript.  It encourages students to pursue biliteracy, honors the skills students attain, and is evidence of skills that are attractive to future employers and college admissions offices.  This is an example of Wauconda schools living its mission to empower every learner to achieve personal excellence.

Wauconda High School currently offers French, Spanish for Heritage Speakers, and Spanish as a World Language courses. Awarding the Seal of Biliteracy recognizes the value of language and diversity in our community and acknowledges the high level of skill required for students to attain biliteracy.  Biliteracy prepares students with 21st-century skills that will benefit them in the labor market and the global society.

1) Apply for the Seal of Biliteracy
You must fill out THIS ONLINE REGISTRATION FORM: Registration
Please complete this application and submit any AAPPL and/or STAMP 4S test fee receipts to the Wauconda Main Office no later than the indicated deadline. All testing will take place in the Wauconda High School Library.

2) Pay for Your Exam

AAPPL test payment link /STAMP 4S payment link

Registration and Payment for AAPPL

Registration and Payment for STAMP

3) Provide Proof of Payment

Seal of Biliteracy FAQ’s

HOW DO I GET THE SEAL?

• Students may request to take the district provided assessments such as AP Tests, AAPPL Test, SAT, ACCESS Test.

• The Director of Bilingual Education reviews applications.

• Approval is given and the information is added to the district electronic records.

• Seal of Biliteracy is added to the student transcripts and adhered to the Diplomas.

IS THERE A COST FOR THE TESTS?

Yes, the cost of each assessment varies based on the individual test. Students are responsible for registering and covering the cost of the assessments.

Questions - Please contact Mrs. Sandra Moran, Director of Bilingual Education, smoran@d118.org or  (847) 536-6611 ext. 9301.

Additional Resources

Wauconda CUSD118 Seal of Biliteracy Brochure

Wauconda CUSD118 Seal of Biliteracy Presentation 2019-2020

ISBE State Seal of Biliteracy

For more information please contact Mrs. Sandra Moran, Director of Bilingual Education, smoran@d118.org or  (847) 536-6611 ext. 9301.