Norristown, PA — Norristown Area School District (NASD) is proud to recognize 26 members of the Norristown Area High School (NAHS) Class of 2026 who earned the Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy, a prestigious distinction that recognizes students who have demonstrated proficiency in English and at least one additional language.
This year's recipients represent a significant increase from the district's inaugural class of 18 Seal of Biliteracy recipients in 2025, reflecting the continued growth and success of the program at NAHS.
“The seal of biliteracy is one of my biggest achievements right now, not for what represents for the rest of the people, but for what represents for me. Getting the Seal of Biliteracy is the portrayal of the language I grew up speaking, and the one that, with my effort, I learned even when I thought that it was impossible. This experience has taught me how to treat myself with more respect and admiration, due to the fact that I put every minute into doing it and getting where I am now, so my mother would feel proud of me, and indeed she is," shared a NAHS Class of 2026 graduate.
The Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy (PASB) is awarded to graduating seniors who attain proficiency in English and one or more additional world languages. The designation encourages college and career readiness while promoting civic and global engagement through bilingualism and biliteracy.
At NASD, students have the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in Reading, Writing, Speaking, and Listening in a language other than English through one of two pathways: the ACTFL Assessment of Performance toward Proficiency in Languages (AAPPL), a state-approved language assessment, or a locally evaluated portfolio. Students are encouraged to choose the pathway that best reflects their strengths and learning experiences and may adjust their pathway throughout the process as needed.
The continued success of the program is made possible through the dedication of the NASD Seal of Biliteracy Committee, a team of staff members who volunteer their time to support students and guide the program's growth. Committee members include Lauren Bissland, Misty Cincotti, Kirstin Colloton, Kaitlin Harris, Marshall Higley, Carrie Skinfill, Lorena Torres, Malikah Upchurch, and Grace Wiedmann.
The Seal of Biliteracy program serves several important purposes within NASD. It formally recognizes and celebrates students' multilingualism, highlights the district's high standards for literacy achievement, and demonstrates NASD's commitment to preparing future leaders with the skills needed to serve both local and global communities. It also reinforces the importance of literacy as a foundation for academic and personal success, while supporting the district's mission to inspire lifelong learning, foster continued growth and personal excellence, and equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a diverse, global society.
With more than 23% of NASD students identified as multilingual learners and nearly 49% speaking a language other than English at home, the Seal of Biliteracy reflects the district's ongoing commitment to valuing and supporting linguistic diversity. The program encourages students to maintain and develop their home languages while strengthening their English language skills, creating opportunities for academic achievement, cultural connection, and future success.
The program's momentum continues to build, with multiple juniors already beginning the process of earning the Seal for next year. District staff are also actively identifying additional students who may qualify and benefit from participation in the program.
Students who earned the Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy received special recognition at the NAHS Senior Awards and a designation on their diploma. In addition to serving as a source of personal pride, the Seal can provide advantages in college admissions, scholarship opportunities, career readiness, and workforce development.
NASD congratulates the 26 graduates who earned the Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy this year and applauds their commitment to academic excellence, multilingualism, and lifelong learning.
For more information about the Pennsylvania Seal of Biliteracy and the program at NASD, visit the district's PA Seal of Biliteracy webpage.