Seal of Biliteracy

An Ohio Seal of Biliteracy recognizes graduating seniors who can demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and at least one other language. Canal Winchester High School gives this award by following state-established guidelines.

A Seal of Biliteracy is a statement added to a student's transcript at the time of graduation that reads, "[Student's Name] is awarded the Ohio Seal of Biliteracy for demonstrating high levels of proficiency in English and [world language]."

Steps to Earning the Seal of Biliteracy

Demonstrate Proficiency in English
Demonstrate Proficiency in Another Language

Demonstrate Proficiency in English

Complete one of the following:

Earn a proficient level or higher on Ohio’s required state tests for high school English language arts I and II
Earn a remediation-free score on the English and reading sections of the ACT or SAT
Earn a proficient level or higher on an Ohio Department of Education-approved alternative assessment (TerraNova or Iowa Test)
Earn a score of proficient or higher on the Ohio English Language Proficiency Assessment (OELPA).

Demonstrate Proficiency in Another Language

Meet 1 of 6 of the ODE-established criteria below. Canal Winchester uses the AAPPL test to demonstrate proficiency. Additional tests may be used for languages not available in the AAPPL.

Pass an Advanced Placement (AP) foreign language examination with a score of 4 or higher\
Pass an International Baccalaureate (IB) foreign language examination with a score of 5 or higher on the Higher Level exam or a score of 6 or higher on the Standard Level exam
Attain a score of Intermediate High or higher in comprehension, speaking, reading and writing the foreign language based on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines found at actfl.org/, using assessments approved by the Ohio Department of Education
Qualify for proficiency-based credits through Ohio’s credit flexibility program and attained a score of Intermediate High or higher in comprehension, speaking, reading and writing based on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines using assessments approved by the Ohio Department of Education
Attain a score equivalent to Intermediate High or higher on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines in interpersonal signing, presentational signing and demonstrating understanding of American Sign Language on an American Sign Language assessment approved by the Ohio Department of Education
Attain a score equivalent to Intermediate High or higher on the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages Proficiency Guidelines in interpretive reading and presentational writing on a classical language assessment approved by the Ohio Department of Education.