SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A new law from state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, will increase educational opportunities for new Americans by recognizing the accomplishments of students who learn English as a second language. Non-native speakers who excel at learning English as a second language can now qualify for the State Seal of Biliteracy, which can help them in the college application process and meet requirements toward a degree. 

“Young people who don’t speak English as their first language are faced with many challenges in their education. We need to do a better job acknowledging their accomplishments,” Hernandez said. “For years, the State Seal of Biliteracy has gone to English-speaking students who learned a second language. Non-English-speaking students should get the same prospects.”

Hernandez was the chief sponsor on House Bill 3237, which expands ways for students to demonstrate their proficiency with English. These are necessary so students whose second language is English can receive the State Seal of Biliteracy in addition to college credit. The bill received strong bipartisan support, and was recently signed into law.

“This legislation is a critical step towards levelling the playing field for non-native English speakers,” Hernandez said. “I want Illinois to be a state where everyone, no matter their background, feels welcome. Correcting discrepancies in our education system is key to building a future for Illinois where all young people receive the opportunities they deserve.”

ROCKFORD, Ill. – The State Seal of Biliteracy, a recognition given to graduating high school students who have demonstrated a high level of proficiency in English and another language, would be available to private school students under a bill supported by state Rep. Maurice West II, D-Rockford.

“Understanding how to read, write, listen and speak in more than one language is incredibly helpful for a student’s skillset,” West said. “Whether a student is in a public school or private, they should be recognized for developing proficiency with multiple languages.”

The purpose of the State Seal of Biliteracy is to encourage students to study languages, certify attainment of biliteracy, provide employers and schools a method of identifying individuals with biliteracy skills and to recognize the value of diversity and languages of different communities. Currently, school district participation in the certification process is voluntary, and it is restricted to public schools only. The West-backed House Bill 37 would allow nonpublic schools to participate as well. Students awarded the seal may have it designated on their diploma and transcript.

“It takes a great deal of hard work and dedication to learn another language,” West said. “I commend the students in Rockford who are studying right now to expand their knowledge of languages. It will open up opportunities in higher education and within career fields they may wish to pursue.”

For more information, please contact West’s constituent service office at 815-987-7433 or Assistance@StateRepWest.com.