At bilingual school Escuela de Guadalupe, bilingualism isn’t just an academic goal—it’s a way of life. And now, thanks to an exciting partnership with the Two-Way Immersion Network of Catholic Schools (TWIN-CS), our students have a new milestone to celebrate on their journey toward becoming fully biliterate: the Seal of Biliteracy Pathway certificate.
By earning the Pathway certificate in 8th grade, our students are formally recognized as being well on their way to biliteracy—a remarkable achievement that most students across the country don’t reach until much later.
A Commitment to Excellence in Two Languages
The Seal of Biliteracy Pathway is more than a certificate; it’s a reflection of years of dedicated learning in both Spanish and English. To earn this honor, 8th grade students must meet rigorous academic standards, including:
- Maintaining a B average or higher in both English and Spanish classes.
- Scoring at or above the national norm on MAP reading assessments in both languages.
- Demonstrating strong, coherent writing in both languages.
- Completing a robust bilingual portfolio that includes personal reflections, academic work, community service, and essays in both languages.
- Presenting their portfolio orally before a committee.
- Using their biliteracy skills in service to their school or community.
This comprehensive process ensures that each student’s recognition is earned and deeply meaningful. And it reflects the values of TWIN-CS, a national network committed to the academic and cultural benefits of dual language Catholic education, of which Escuela de Guadalupe is a proud member.
A Legacy of Success at Bilingual School in Denver
At Escuela de Guadalupe, biliteracy isn’t an exception—it’s the norm. By the time our students graduate from our PreK-8 program, most are already proficient in reading, writing, and speaking both Spanish and English. The Pathway certificate simply makes that excellence official and encourages students to pursue the full Seal of Biliteracy when they graduate from high school.
Even students who move on to high schools without formal dual-language programs can still pursue the Seal thanks to the strong foundation they build here. That’s the power of an Escuela de Guadalupe education.
Home Stretch
Since January, our 8th graders have been working on their portfolios each week, culminating in their presentations this month. Under the guidance of English teacher Ms. Tegan Voils and Spanish teacher Mr. Francisco Luna, students receive close support and feedback to ensure they’re meeting every requirement.
The culmination of this process is a powerful moment of pride—both for our students and for our entire bilingual school community.
Eighth grader Leilani had this to say – in English and Spanish – about the process of earning the Seal of Biliteracy Pathway certification.
“The process of earning the seal of biliteracy has taken a lot of time and effort, but I believe that it will be worth it because it validates my ability to communicate in both languages. Being able to be bilingual is a huge asset that I am excited to use both in writing and expressing myself in my future opportunities.
El sello de bilingüismo ha requerido mucho trabajo, pero vale la pena porque demuestra que se usa bien tanto el inglés como el español. Ser bilingüe es una gran habilidad que puede ayudarme en mis futuras oportunidades y me siento orgullosa por poder expresarme en ambos.”
And eighth grader Kamila had this to say:
“There was truly a lot on my plate as I neared the end of this project, but I realized my hard work would soon pay off. I know this certification will provide me with many amazing opportunities all throughout my future. The ability of bilingualism has truly helped me become more open minded and has enhanced my cultural appreciation. By pursuing this certification, I can share how bilingualism has shaped me into the person I am today and how it has helped me all throughout middle school.
Al esforzarme para terminar este proyecto me di cuenta de que mi gran esfuerzo pronto daría sus frutos. Se que esta certificación me brindara muchas oportunidades increíbles durante todo mi futuro. La habilidad de ser bilingüe me ha ayudado a comprender varias culturas. Al proseguir con esta certificación, puedo compartir como el bilingüismo me ha hecho en la persona que soy ahora y como me ha ayudado durante toda la secundaria.“
As they receive their 8th grade diplomas adorned with the Seal of Biliteracy Pathway Award, our graduates stand as shining examples of what’s possible when young minds are nurtured in two languages.
