Laramie County School District honors students with Wyoming Seal of Biliteracy awards

A vibrant celebration unfolded at the Laramie County School District 1 meeting on May 5, 2025, as students were honored for their remarkable achievements in language proficiency with the Wyoming Seal of Biliteracy. This award recognizes high school students who demonstrate proficiency in two or more languages, a testament to their hard work and dedication.

Reagan Kaufman, the district's world language coordinator, emphasized the collaborative efforts of educators that made this recognition possible. "Without this team, we could not get our students to this level of achievement in language proficiency," she stated, highlighting the importance of world language and English as a second language teachers in the process.

The Seal of Biliteracy, which was signed into law by Governor Gordon in March 2022, is a nationwide initiative now adopted by all 50 states. It not only acknowledges students' language skills but also enhances their college applications, as many universities offer credit for this achievement. Students must meet specific proficiency standards and graduation requirements to qualify.

During the ceremony, students from various schools were recognized for their accomplishments. Awards were presented for both the standard Seal of Biliteracy and the Seal with Advanced Distinction, which requires a higher level of proficiency. Notably, students receiving the advanced distinction tested just one level below the certification required to teach world languages in Wyoming.

The event also celebrated exchange students who, while not meeting state graduation requirements, received the Laramie County Seal of Biliteracy and the Global Seal of Biliteracy for their multilingual capabilities. Kaufman expressed pride in their growth, particularly in mastering English during their time in the American school system.

As the ceremony concluded, parents and guardians were invited to stand and be recognized for their support, underscoring the community's role in fostering educational success. This celebration not only honored individual achievements but also highlighted the district's commitment to promoting language proficiency and cultural diversity among its students.