Biliteracy Initiatives

Current Resources 

• OSSB_M Manual
  
• OSSB/M Request Form
  • OSSB/M Request Form Template
    
• OSSB/M Listserv
• OSSB and OSSM Images
• OSSB/M One-Pager
  
• ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines page, including Oral Proficiency in the Workplace poster
• OELA Benefits of Multilingualism Infographic

History and Context

The State School Board created the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy (OSSB) to recognize and value the native language/s students speak and bring to their English academic studies, to value language programs in schools, and to encourage students in the study of languages. This award recognizes student proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in two or more languages.

In just a few years after its inception, the OSSB had already recognized students who speak 47 different primary languages and earned the Biliteracy Seal in over 22 different languages. The Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy was the first in the nation to collaborate with post-secondary institutions to offer the Seal. A Seal of Multiliteracy (OSSM) has also been added to the program, to honor student proficiency in three or more languages. Seals may be requested in any combination of languages.

ODE is striving to remove barriers so that more districts can offer the OSSB and OSSM, which we hope will continue to form a meaningful addition to the many ways districts validate students' primary languages, as well as recognizing and honoring the work students have done to ready themselves for participation in a multilingual society.

Contacts

Ben Wolcott