70 Hoboken High School Students Recognized By State For 'Biliteracy'

HOBOKEN, NJ — Seventy Hoboken High School students have earned a total of 73 New Jersey Department of Education Seals of Biliteracy, the district announced Monday — meaning they're proficient in at least one language besides English.

The group included 35 juniors and 35 seniors, the district said.

Students earned the seals in Spanish, Italian, French, Dutch, Serbian, Bulgarian and Turkish, in addition to English.

The students must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in speaking, reading, writing and listening in one or more languages besides English. The distinction is placed on students' diplomas and transcripts, according to the district.

“Our students have embraced the power of language as a bridge between cultures and communities,” Hoboken High School Principal Robin Piccapietra said. “This recognition reflects their dedication and the district’s continued investment in world language education.”

New Jersey adopted the Seal of Biliteracy in 2016 as part of a national effort to recognize language proficiency and encourage students to pursue biliteracy, according to the district. Students earn the seal by meeting state-approved assessment standards.

Superintendent Dr. Christine Johnson said language learning helps prepare students for a global future.

“Language is more than communication. It is a connection,” Johnson said. “From our youngest learners to our graduating seniors, Hoboken Public Schools are nurturing global citizens who value and appreciate the richness of diverse cultures.”

The district pointed to several language-focused programs across grade levels. Those include a dual language program launched in kindergarten and first grade at each elementary school, with plans to add one grade level each year.

Hoboken Middle School offers a five-day-a-week world language program in French, Spanish and Mandarin, according to the district, while Hoboken High School offers world language courses that include Advanced Placement classes.

The district also cited its Classrooms Without Walls International Travel Program, which offers educational travel experiences to France, Greece, Italy, Spain, Japan, the Galapagos Islands, Peru, England, Iceland and South Africa.

The biliteracy seal recipients will be formally recognized at an upcoming Board of Education meeting and during Hoboken High School’s Class of 2026 commencement ceremony, according to the district.

For more information about the Seal of Biliteracy or district world language initiatives, contact Assistant Superintendent of Schools Sandra Rodriguez Gomez.

See information about the school calendar here.