Gresham Barlow School District Celebrates 46 Biliteracy Seal Recipients

During the June 4, 2025 Board Business Meeting of the Gresham-Barlow School District, a significant highlight was the recognition of students achieving the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy. This year, a record 46 students from Gresham High School, Barlow High School, and Springwater Trail School were honored for their proficiency in multiple languages, showcasing the district's commitment to linguistic diversity and cultural responsiveness.

The ceremony began with the presentation of awards to students who successfully completed a rigorous language assessment, demonstrating their skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing across various languages, including Dari, Farsi, Kinyarwanda, Oromo, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian, Spanish, and Ukrainian. The recognition not only celebrates the students' hard work but also emphasizes the value of bilingualism in today's global society.

The administration expressed pride in these students, noting that their linguistic abilities are a valuable asset to both themselves and the community. The ability to communicate in at least two languages positions these graduates as culturally responsive individuals, ready to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the growing participation in the biliteracy program, with underclassmen continuing to have their scores banked for future consideration. This trend reflects increased access, promotion, and recruitment efforts within the district, encouraging more students to engage in language studies.

As the ceremony concluded, students were awarded medallions to honor their achievements, with a group photo planned to commemorate the occasion. This event not only recognized individual accomplishments but also reinforced the district's dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive educational environment. The Gresham-Barlow School District continues to pave the way for future generations, ensuring that students are equipped with the skills necessary to navigate and contribute to a multicultural world.