CVA Pilots Seal of Biliteracy Program

This school year, the CVA Foreign Languages Department introduced a pilot Maine Seal of Biliteracy program. The statewide distinction recognizes graduating seniors who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one additional language.
Now more than two-thirds of the way through the program’s first year, students in upper-level French and Spanish classes are preparing to take the AAPPL (ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages) this spring. Developed by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages, the exam evaluates reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills and serves as the qualifying assessment for the Seal. Students may take the AAPPL as juniors or seniors; those who meet the proficiency benchmark before senior year may apply that score toward the Seal once they have completed their senior English graduation requirement, without needing to retake the assessment.

“It’s exciting for students to work toward something that recognizes the real-world value of learning another language,” said CVA French teacher Beth Hamblet. “The Seal encourages them to push beyond memorization and truly develop the ability to communicate and understand another language.”

Spanish teacher Jennifer Simmons adds, “Language study builds confidence and curiosity. When students realize they can communicate in another language, it opens their eyes to the wider world and helps them connect more deeply with people and cultures beyond their own.”

To earn the Seal of Biliteracy, students must meet or be on track to meet their English graduation requirements and demonstrate a proficiency level of Intermediate Mid or higher in another language on the exam. Multilingual students not currently enrolled in a formal class may also qualify by demonstrating proficiency.

The Seal of Biliteracy both celebrates academic achievement and provides a meaningful credential for students as they prepare for life after graduation. Recipients may include the Seal on college and job applications, highlighting their advanced language proficiency and cross-cultural communication skills. In some cases, colleges may also grant academic credit based on a student’s demonstrated proficiency level.

The Academy’s Foreign Languages Department emphasizes communication, cultural understanding, and real-world language use, with a shared focus on helping students build confidence in communication and cultural awareness. French teacher Beth Hamblet holds a Bachelor of Arts in French from the University of Georgia and has completed graduate coursework at Plymouth State University. Spanish teacher Jennifer Simmons holds a Bachelor of Arts in Spanish from the University of Maine and is state-certified in Spanish.

As a pilot program, the Seal of Biliteracy initiative provides CVA with an opportunity to build and refine its approach to language assessment and recognition. Its introduction reflects the Academy’s continued commitment to a rigorous, college-preparatory academic program. Language study strengthens critical thinking, cultural awareness, and communication skills—qualities that support success in college and beyond.

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