IOWA BILITERACY SEAL GUIDANCE

In 2018, Governor Kim Reynolds signed Senate File (SF) 475 into law. SF 475 required the Iowa Department of Education (Department) to develop and administer the Seal of Biliteracy Program to any participating school district, public attendance center (i.e., school building), or accredited nonpublic school. The purpose of the program is to recognize graduating high school students who have demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one other world language. 

Importance of Biliteracy in the 21st Century

A biliteracy seal is important because knowing and using more than one language is a critical 21st-century skill.

A biliteracy seal:

• Values language as an asset;
• Recognizes the value of language diversity and cultural identity;
• Prepares students with 21st-century skills that will benefit them in the labor market and global society; and
• Provides employers, institutions of higher education, and grant or scholarship providers evidence of a student’s world language skills and dedication to attaining biliteracy.

* For more information, please see your school counselor.