School For Biliteracy

Mission

The mission of the J.S. Morton HSD 201 ELL and Modern Language Department is to use the target language to develop successful multilingual lifetime learners with an understanding and appreciation of diverse cultures, empowered to become productive citizens in our global economy.

Vision

Our vision is to enhance all students’ prior knowledge and existing skills in order for them to be successful academically and professionally with the target language. 

 

What is the Seal of Biliteracy?

The Seal of Biliteracy is a recognition given to graduating Seniors who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in English and another language. 

Seal of Biliteracy Criteria

What is the criteria of the Seal of Biliteracy?

English (ONE of the following):

• ACT Score composite of 21 or 18 on the English Subject Area Test
• SAT Score of 480 in English Language Arts (EBRW)
• ACCESS Score of 4.8 Overall
• AP English Language and Composition score of 5
• AAPPL Test Score of Intermediate-5 or Advanced in all 4 domains

World Language (ONE of the following):

• 4 or 5 on the AP Language and Culture Exam
• AAPPL Test score of Intermediate-5 or Advanced in all 4 domains 
• Portfolio option for languages in which tests are not available

What is the criteria for the Commendation toward the Seal of Biliteracy?

English (ONE of the following):

• ACT Score composite of 21 or 18 on the English Subject Area Test
• SAT Score of 480 in English (EBRW)
• ACCESS Literacy Score of 3.5 or above
• AP English Language and Composition score of 4
• AAPPL Test Score between Intermediate-1 and Intermediate-4 in all 4 domains

World Language (ONE of the following):

• 3 on the AP Language and Culture Exam
• AAPPL Test score between Intermediate-1 and Intermediate-4 in all 4 domains
• Portfolio option for languages in which tests are not available

Seal of Biliteracy Benefits

What are the benefits of the Seal of Biliteracy?

Graduating Seniors who receive the Seal of Biliteracy will gain the following benefits:

• Gold Seal of Biliteracy on High School Diploma and high school transcripts
• Name in Graduation Bulletin and recognition at the graduation ceremony
• Meet the college entrance requirement of two years of foreign language for Illinois public colleges and universities
• Obtain college credit in modern languages at Illinois public colleges and universities, and participating private universities 
• Proof of language skills for resume and career

College Credits through the Seal of Biliteracy

• High School College Credit Flier

Morton East Biliteracy Coach

Diana Martinez

As a Morton East alum, I am excited to continue working with our wonderful students and teachers at Morton East High School. This is my sixth year in education, but I began my career as a Dual Language EC/Pre-k teacher in Cicero District 99. Last school year, I had the pleasure of working at Morton East as an EL support teacher in the Science department and as an EL 1 English and Reading Teacher. As a Biliteracy Coach, I have the opportunity to work with teachers to continue integrating inclusive practices and strategies to create an environment conducive to learning. I strongly believe in celebrating our students and teachers, language, and identity to build a stronger and more united school community. This year I have enjoyed learning about the Seal of Biliteracy program and the benefits and opportunities that it provides our students. I look forward to working with various stakeholders to support our multilingual learners.

Phone: 708-780-4000

Email: dmartinez1@jsmorton.org