CANTON, MA — Canton Public Schools has received statewide recognition for its students' achievement in English and other languages.
The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education awarded the district a Seal of Biliteracy Star Award based on the number of Canton High School students who earned the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy in 2024 and 2025, according to the district. Students earn the seal by demonstrating a high level of proficiency in English and at least one additional language.
"I am extremely proud of our Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy success," said Vanessa Harvey, the district's world languages coordinator for pre-K through Grade 12. "After years of refining our programming and pathways to the Seal, I am honored to receive this recognition."
Canton students may take a qualifying language assessment during their junior or senior year. They can test in a language studied through Canton Public Schools or in a native or heritage language.
Language assessment results and English proficiency requirements determine whether a student qualifies for the Seal of Biliteracy or the Seal with Distinction, according to the district.
"The number of Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy recipients has gradually increased each year," Harvey said. "In the CHS Class of 2026, for example, there were 32 Seals awarded to students in over 10 languages."
The seal is awarded at graduation and placed on a student's high school transcript, according to DESE. The program is meant to recognize language diversity, help employers identify applicants with biliteracy skills and give colleges and universities a way to recognize advanced language proficiency.
DESE began presenting its Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy Recognition Awards in fall 2026.
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