EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — Las Cruces Public Schools (LCPS) celebrated a record number with over 150 graduating seniors awarded the New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism and Biliteracy.
On Thursday, May 1, a record 162 State Seals were awarded, including seven students earning the distinction in two different languages, according to Las Cruces Public Schools.
“The New Mexico State Seal of Bilingualism and Biliteracy is a testament to the profound impact of language and its power to connect us,” Aine García-Post, executive director of Bilingual Education, Translation and Interpretation/Community Outreach, said. “It is a privilege to recognize the outstanding achievements of our students through this honor.”
According to LCPS, this year is the highest number of students recognized with the achievement since the program’s inception.
The State Seal of Bilingualism and Biliteracy is awarded to graduating seniors who “demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language,” LCPS said.
The school district offered the State Seal to students in the following languages:
- English
- Spanish
- Arabic
- Hakha Chin (primarily spoken in Myanmar)
- Korean
- French
- Romanian
- Russian
- Ukrainian
- Swahili
- Vietnamese
In addition, the State Seal certifies a student’s ability to use another language meaningfully in college, a career or in service to their local community. The seal is also noted on the students’ official high school transcript, according to the school district.
“LCPS remains committed to fostering a multilingual environment that reflects the diverse backgrounds and bright futures of its students,” the school district said in a news release.
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