Seal of Biliteracy
2026-2027
Dear Parents and Guardians of EPHS 11th and 12th Graders,
Elmwood Park Community Unit District 401 is excited to offer students the opportunity to earn the State Seal of Biliteracy and the Commendation Towards Biliteracy this 2026–2027 school year!
What Are These Awards?
These state awards recognize graduating high school students who demonstrate proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in English and at least one other world language.
State Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate high proficiency in both languages.
Commendation Towards Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate intermediate proficiency in both languages.
Either distinction earned will be officially designated on your child's high school diploma and transcript.
Why Should Your Student Earn the Seal?
Under Illinois state law, all public universities and community colleges in Illinois award college course credit for the Seal of Biliteracy, saving your family time and tuition money!
Demonstrating biliteracy shows colleges and future employers strong communication skills, cultural competency, and dedication.
Being officially certified as bilingual opens up enhanced job opportunities and higher earning potential in today’s global workforce.
It celebrates and honors the language skills students have developed at home, in school, and in their communities.
How Do Students Qualify?
Students demonstrate English proficiency through standardized test scores (such as ACCESS, ACT, SAT, or AP exams) and take an approved language proficiency assessment in their world language.
Next Steps:
Review the Seal of Biliteracy Testing Information.
Review the ISBE Seal of Biliteracy Handout.
If your student wants to participate in the exam, please complete the Parent Agreement Form by Friday, November 13th.
Updates and details will be posted on our Seal of Biliteracy Google Classroom (Class Code: oryrm2k ).
World Language Testing will take place on Thursday, November 19th.There will be a make-up/re-take opportunity in early December as well.
Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. We look forward to celebrating our multilingual students!
Sincerely,
Natalia Gomez
Director for Multilingual & Instructional Supports
708-583-5710
