(a)
The State Seal of Biliteracy is established to recognize high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English. The State Seal of Biliteracy shall be awarded by the Superintendent. School district participation in this program is voluntary.
(b)
The purposes of the State Seal of Biliteracy are as follows:
(1)
To encourage pupils to study languages.
(2)
To certify attainment of biliteracy.
(3)
To provide employers
with a method of identifying people with language and biliteracy skills.
(4)
To provide universities with a method to recognize and give academic credit to applicants seeking admission.
(5)
To prepare pupils with 21st century skills.
(6)
To recognize and promote foreign language instruction in public schools.
(7)
To strengthen intergroup relationships, affirm the value of diversity, and honor the multiple cultures and languages of a community.