142 LEAD Students Earn the Seal of Biliteracy Award
LEAD Public Schools is proud to announce that a record number of 142 students across all of its schools earned the Volunteer State Seal of Biliteracy Award for demonstrating proficiency and excellence in both English and another language. 
One 12th grader earned the Seal of Biliteracy Honors, six 12th graders earned the Seal of Bilingualism (out of only 11 total awarded statewide), twenty-four 12th graders earned the Seal of Biliteracy, and 111 8th graders were awarded the Pathway to Biliteracy award.
“Acknowledging biliteracy in schools is not just about language; it’s about affirming identity, advancing equity and inclusion, and strengthening connections between schools and families,” said Rachel Roeschen, coordinator of English Language Learners at LEAD Public Schools. “This award celebrates students who have high proficiency in both English and their home language. By recognizing the importance of their home language and cultural identities, it instills a deep sense of belonging and empowerment within these students.”
This group of LEAD students earned the award in seven different languages, including Spanish, Arabic, and Swahili.
“I think this honor recognizes how impressive and highly capable these students are for knowing and learning two languages,” said Roeschen.
Congratulations to each of our Seal of Biliteracy Award recipients!
