Language is a life skill and an essential work place skill. For a business to grow and be profitable, communication with customers and clients is a must. In healthcare, we must be able to serve adequately our patients and without certain subsets of skills- the ability to speak the languages is one such skill, we fail ourselves as a community and society. We recognize other skills through credentialing. It is time for us to recognize language too as one of these essential skills. I highly encourage the Seal of Biliteracy be recognized as presented in HB2360

Comments Document

Global Virginia Position Statement for HB 2360 Global Virginia strongly supports Virginia House Bill HB2360, which designates the high school diploma Seal of Biliteracy as a high-demand industry workforce credential. This bill acknowledges the significant value of multilingualism in today's global economy and enhances students' career prospects. Enhancing Employability and Economic Competitiveness Proficiency in multiple languages is a critical asset in various industries, including international business, healthcare, education, and government services. Employers often offer language pay differentials, with bilingual employees earning salaries 5-20% higher than their monolingual counterparts. For instance, the U.S. national security organizations, many of which are located in Virginia, provide foreign language proficiency pay to eligible civilian employees, underscoring the demand for language skills in the workforce. Recognizing and Validating Language Proficiency The Seal of Biliteracy is an official recognition awarded to high school students who have demonstrated proficiency in two or more languages. By designating it as an industry credential, Virginia acknowledges the practical value of bilingualism, providing students with a tangible certification that can enhance their resumes and college applications. This recognition can lead to advanced placement or college credit for language courses, saving students time and tuition costs. Promoting Educational Equity and Cultural Competence Implementing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential encourages students from diverse linguistic backgrounds to maintain and develop their native languages alongside English. This fosters cultural competence and inclusivity, preparing students to engage effectively in a multicultural society. Moreover, it motivates native English speakers to pursue additional language studies, broadening their perspectives and enhancing cross-cultural communication skills. Supporting Virginia's Educational and Workforce Goals Aligning the Seal of Biliteracy with industry credentialing supports Virginia's commitment to preparing students for the demands of the modern workforce. It encourages language learning, critical thinking, and adaptability—skills essential for success in a globalized economy. This initiative also reflects a strategic investment in the state's economic development by cultivating a multilingual workforce attractive to international businesses and organizations. In conclusion, passing HB2360 will provide Virginia students with valuable credentials that recognize their language skills, enhance their employability, and contribute to the state's economic vitality. I urge the legislature to support this bill and affirm the importance of bilingualism as a critical workforce competency. On behalf of Global Virginia, Beatrix Preusse-Burr President, Global Virginia

Vanessa Lopez-Sotomayor 4087 Mineral Springs Ln Glen Allen, VA, 23060 vanessa.lopezsoto@gmail.com 571-398-9824 1/21/2025 Dear House Education Committee, I am writing to request your support in recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. I also ask that state funding streams for industry credentials be extended to support the costs for students taking state-approved language proficiency tests. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Sincerely, Vanessa Lopez-Sotomayor

FabiolaHall 7254 Ann Cabell Lane Mechanicsville, VA 23111 fhall@hcps.us (804) 306-9773 01-21-25 The Honorable ScottA. Wyatt Virginia General Assembly District: 60 Party: R Dear ScottA. Wyatt, I am writing to request your support in recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. I also ask that state funding streams for industry credentials be extended to support the costs for students taking state-approved language proficiency tests. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Sincerely, Fabiola Hall Oak Knoll Middle School

I support recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential. I support recognizing our country's role in the development of multicultural and multilingual citizens who work successfully with others.

Drema Jefferson 8287 Ironclad Dr. Mechanicsville, VA 23111 djefferson@hcps.us 804-585-7118 January 21, 2025 The Honorable Mr. Wilt Virginia General Assembly Dear Mr. Wilt, I am writing to request your support in recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. I also ask that state funding streams for industry credentials be extended to support the costs for students taking state-approved language proficiency tests. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Sincerely, Drema Jefferson Spanish Teacher Hanover County Public Schools

For all whom it concerns, I am writing to request your support in recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. I also ask that state funding streams for industry credentials be extended to support the costs for students taking state-approved language proficiency tests. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Best, Caroline Little ESOL Teacher of Hanover County Public Schools

I am writing to request your support in recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. I also ask that state funding streams for industry credentials be extended to support the costs for students taking state-approved language proficiency tests. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Sincerely, Erica Gabriel

The Seal of Biliteracy is an important tool that can serve as an industry credential, benefiting Virginia students in numerous ways. As a symbol of bilingual proficiency, the seal recognizes students who have achieved fluency in both English and another language. This distinction can provide graduates with a competitive edge in a globalized job market, where bilingualism is increasingly sought after by employers across various industries. With Virginia's diverse demographic and global connections, the Seal of Biliteracy not only celebrates linguistic achievement but also directly aligns students with the skills needed to succeed in international business, diplomacy, education, and healthcare fields. Incorporating the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential also positively impacts student graduation rates. It encourages students to continue their language studies and pursue academic excellence, knowing that their bilingual abilities will be formally recognized and valued. This recognition can motivate students to complete their high school education and even pursue higher education opportunities, ultimately increasing overall graduation rates in Virginia. Additionally, by signaling to employers that a student is proficient in two languages, the seal can lead to increased employment opportunities and a smoother transition into the workforce after graduation. By elevating the Seal of Biliteracy to an industry credential, Virginia can foster a generation of students equipped with both academic and practical language skills, enhancing their future career prospects and contributing to the state's economic growth.

As a retired national security official who has used several foreign languages in her career, I would like to voice my strong support of Virginia House Bill HB 2360, which designates the high school diploma Seal of Biliteracy as a high-demand industry workforce credential. Such a designation acknowledges the significant value of multilingualism and enhances students' career prospects - whether they pursue a career in government or in another capacity. I would note that many of our U.S. national security organizations are located in Virginia and hire from within our state. Further, the U.S. government often partners with industry expertise in tackling various national security threats from foreign adversaries. Language skills in a wide variety of languages have been and will remain integral to our mission. Thank you, Lorie Roule

As a parent of world language students and a division supervisor of world language and ESOL programs, I support this bill to make the Seal of Biliteracy an industry credential and ask that you do the same. It is increasingly important for our students and citizens to communicate in languages other than English. Credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services.

I am writing to request your support for HB2360, recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an official Industry Credential for the purposes of meeting graduation requirements and enhancing school accountability in Virginia. As our state continues to refine its educational standards, we have an opportunity to incorporate language skills as a critical career asset for our students. Industry credentials play a vital role in both student development and the workforce. For students, credentials offer a clear, externally validated evidence of skill mastery that is highly valued by employers. They also help students meet graduation requirements and prepare them for high-wage, high-demand careers. For schools, credentials are a core element of Virginia’s 3E framework, which focuses on “engagement, enrollment, and employment.” Recognizing the Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential would further strengthen our education system by acknowledging the critical role that language skills play in a range of careers, including health care, hospitality, and human services. The Seal of Biliteracy already serves as an external validation of language proficiency, achieved through rigorous testing that measures functional language skills. According to Virginia’s labor data, interpreters and translators are a high-demand field with projected growth of 15.2% over the next five years, and average earnings of $70,578 annually. Many other industries, such as law enforcement, the health industry, and hospitality, just to name a few, also seek bilingual employees to meet the demands of diverse communities. Adding the Seal of Biliteracy to the list of approved industry credentials would empower students to better compete in the global economy while benefiting from Virginia’s ongoing investments in high-demand skills. As the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE) revises its list of approved industry credentials to align with high-wage and high-demand careers, I urge you to include the Seal of Biliteracy as a recognized credential. Thank you for considering this important step toward preparing Virginia students for success in both the workforce and the world. Dr. Bettina Staudt, - President VADLEN

As the Region V representative for the Virginia EL Supervisors' Association (VESA,) I am writing in support of making the Virginia Diploma Seal of Biliteracy an industry credential. Like the other credentials currently available, the Seal of Biliteracy prepares our students for future high-skills, high-wage careers and continues to build Virginia's bilingual workforce. The recognition of the Seal of Biliteracy affirms the assets our students bring to their jobs when they acquire literacy and oracy in a second language and provides Virginia's employers with a measure they can use of a student's bilingualism. This seal also supports the ability of English Learners to highlight their strengths in their native language, affirming their multilingual identity. Enacting HB2360 will continue to highlight for educators the importance of ensuring all students, including ELs, are able to engage in coursework that prepares them to meet the needs of Virginia's employers. As such, I urge you to support HB2360.

I am writing in support of recognizing the Virginia Diploma Seal of Biliteracy as an industry credential. Like certification in CTE skills, the Seal signifies to post-secondary education and employers that students have skills that are valuable to employers. They can communicate in English and another language, which is vital in this global economy. Virginia employers demand employees with certified language ability and the global competence that comes with knowing about others' cultures. This bill is essential to validate student linguistic identity for native language speakers and to acknowledge the hard-won skills of world language learners, providing clear career paths, and elevating language from a perceived deficit to an employability asset.

Comments Document

Delegates of the House Education Committee: As the chair of advocacy for the Foreign Language Association of Virginia and as a citizen of Virginia and world language educator, I urge you to enact Virginia House Bill HB 2360, which designates the high school diploma Seal of Biliteracy as a high-demand industry workforce credential. This designation recognizes the demand for multilingualism in the economies of Virginia, the United States, and the world. Students with this Seal on their diploma will be more competitive for employment in the careers of their choice. The Seal of Biliteracy, is awarded to high school students who demonstrate proficiency in two or more languages (generally English and a second world language) through rigorous testing. The proficiency achieved meets standards recognized nationally and internationally. Classifying the Seal as an industry credential underscores the practical importance of bilingualism, equipping students with a recognized certification that enhances their résumés. Aligning the Seal of Biliteracy with industry credentialing enhances Virginia's efforts to equip students for the modern workforce's requirements. As you can see from the attached chart, using data from a survey of 1200 employers done by Ipsos Public Affairs in 2018, employers in all sectors rely on U.S.-based employees with skills in languages other than English. Attaining the Seal in high school demonstrates that graduating students can meet this need. Recognizing the Seal as an industry credential promotes Virginia’s economic growth by cultivating a multilingual workforce that appeals to employers in government, business, and industry. Enacting HB2360 will provide Virginia students with valuable credentials that meet the needs of Virginia employers, improve the students' employability, and contribute to the state's economic progress. I strongly urge that this bill become law. Thank you for your consideration, Sharon Guinn Scinicariello, Ph.D. Advocacy Chair, Foreign Language Association of Virginia