Oregon Seal of Biliteracy

Test Information

What It Is

The Seal of Biliteracy is an award given by the State of Oregon in recognition of students who have studied and attained proficiency in English and one or more world languages by high school graduation. 

The intent of the Seal of Biliteracy is to recognize and value the native language/s students speak and bring to their English academic studies, to value language programs in schools, to encourage students in the study of languages, and to create generations of citizens, ready for a multilingual society.

The Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy (OSSB) recognized 22 different languages in 2020, including Chinuk Wawa, Nez Perce, and Umatilla, three of the languages spoken by several of the nine federally recognized tribes in Oregon. In addition, students from the Oregon School of the Deaf earned the Seal in American Sign Language (ASL).
 

Test Information

Language competency is determined by scores earned on the STAMP 4S or WS tests.  

• Two test dates will be offered February 8, 2023, and February 15, 2023, administered at Central Catholic High School from 7:30 am to 9:30 am
• Students must take a minimum of two tests – one in English, and one in each world language for which they wish to be recognized. Native English speakers must also take the English language exam. 
• Cost is $50 per student – this includes one English exam and one world language exam (financial assistance is available)
• To earn the Seal, students must earn a 7 or higher on the STAMP test for each language test. A score of 4 or higher on the AP language test or a score of 3 or higher on the AP Literature test also qualifies for languages other than English also qualifies for OSBL.
• Information and Q & A session will be held via Zoom for parents and students on January 12, 2023, at 6:30 pm.  Zoom Meeting Link: https://zoom.us/j/99317483600
• If interested in the Oregon Seal of Multiliteracy (more than two languages) please contact Patrick Mordhorst to set up an extra testing date)

Register for Test
 

Why It Is Important

The are many benefits of earning the OSSB:

• To recognize and affirm the value of diversity, and honor the multiple cultures and languages of a community 
• To certify attainment of Biliteracy as students apply for colleges and programs that look for students who are ready to contribute to a global society
• To provide employers with a method of identifying people with language and Biliteracy skills
• To provide post-secondary institutions with a method to give academic credit to applicants seeking admission

How It is Awarded

The State Seal of Biliteracy is marked by a gold seal on the student’s high school diploma and recorded on the student’s official academic transcript.  Central Catholic students who earn the Seal of Biliteracy are recognized at graduation with green and gold cords and identified in the graduation program. 

Once scores are received, Central Catholic administrators will file the application for the OSSB for eligible students.
 

Questions?

Koty Cole, English Department Chair (kcole@centralcatholichigh.org)

Mariko Tokoyoda, World Language Department Chair (mtokoyoda@centralcatholichigh.org)

Patrick Mordhorst, Assistant Principal of Curriculum Design and Instruction (pmordhorst@centralcatholichigh.org)