Worcester Schools Receive State Platinum Award For Biliteracy

WORCESTER, MA — Worcester Public Schools was one of two districts statewide to receive a Platinum Star Award for expanding access to the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy.

The Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education recently presented the award to the district for having at least 200 students or 30 percent of its graduating class earn the seal while meeting three equity benchmarks. Education Commissioner Pedro Martinez presented the award to Jessica Mandes, the district's director of multilingual education, and Michelle Huaman, its world language curriculum specialist.

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Established in 2019, the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes high school graduates who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one additional language.

This was the first year DESE recognized districts based on both the number of students earning the seal and efforts to make the program accessible to students of different backgrounds and abilities.

Worcester received commendations for seal attainment among students classified as English learners, former English learners and students who had been English learners at any point.

"The Worcester Public Schools remains committed to supporting students with earning the Seal of Biliteracy," Superintendent Brian E. Allen said. "Being fluent in more than one language is a true gift that opens the door to a lifetime of additional opportunities, while promoting cultural inclusivity."

DESE recognized 55 districts at various achievement levels statewide.

School-based coordinators who administer the program in Worcester include Ofelia Maskewich at North High School, Jailene Muñoz at South High School, Araceli Esqueda at Doherty High School, Adriana Perez Sabido at Burncoat High School, Monica Echevarria at Claremont Academy and Yenilda Melendez at Worcester Technical High School. Huaman coordinates the program districtwide and at alternative schools.

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