Bilingual Pathways

Bilingualism is a superpower that opens doors to new opportunities.

Bilingualism increases brain power, literally. Learning another language strengthens cognitive abilities like creativity and flexibility. It also supports academic achievement and job market competitiveness. For students classified as English Learners, enrollment in bilingual education programs significantly improves their academic and linguistic outcomes. The State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes the bilingualism and biliteracy skills English Learners develop in bilingual education programs and beyond.

Keep reading to learn more about bilingual education programs and the Seal of Biliteracy programs.

Bilingual Education Programs

There are several different types of bilingual education programs for K-12 students. All such programs provide instruction to students in both English and another language, but differ in some important ways. One difference pertains to the value programs place on the non-English partner language.

Dual language education (DLE) programs are additive, because they seek to develop students’ proficiency both in English, and in the partner language.
Transitional bilingual education (TBE) programs are subtractive, because they phase out use of the partner language as students’ English proficiency grows.

Additive programs are great for all kids, because it helps them develop proficiency in two languages; they are particularly helpful for English Learners, because they nurture and develop the language(s) they already bring with them to school. Unfortunately, English Learners often do not have equitable access to additive DLE programs

What are the differences between bilingual programs?

Dual Language Education (DLE)

Programs are additive: they seek to develop students’ proficiency both in English, and in the partner language.

Goals

Bilingualism and biliteracy Cross-cultural competency Academic achievement

Grades Served

Any (elementary, middle, high school)

Students Served

One Way Immersion: 100% students from the same language group

Two Way Immersion: 50% students from one language group, 50% English speakers

Language Allocation

50% of instruction is in English and 50% is in the partner language

Transitional Bilingual Education (TBE)

Programs are subtractive: they phase out use of the partner language as students’ English proficiency grows.

Goals

English language proficiency Academic achievement in English

Grades Served

Any, but particularly suited for newcomers and transient students at the secondary level

Students Served

100% students from the same language group

Language Allocation

Early – Exit: 10% of instruction is in English in kindergarten and 90% is in the partner language. The percentages change at each grade levels for four to six years.

Late – Exit: 10% of instruction is in English in kindergarten and 90% is in the partner language. The percentages change at each grade levels for four to six years.

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The State Seal of Biliteracy

The State Seal of Biliteracy is an award that recognizes high school graduates who have studied and attained proficiency in two or more languages. After meeting specific criteria, graduating seniors receive a seal that appears on their high school transcript or diploma. The seal can serve as a statement of accomplishment for future employers and for college admissions.

Unfortunately, districts and schools serving English Learners may be less likely to offer the State Seal of Biliteracy, and English Learners may be less likely to receive the seal, depending on a state’s requirements.

Browse research and resources about the State Seal of Biliteracy.

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