Requirements

Criteria to earn the Massachusetts State Seal of Biliteracy

1. English Language Criteria:

Students shall demonstrate proficiency in English by meeting language arts requirements for high school graduation or demonstrating proficiency on a validated test of proficiency for English learners. Assessments in English may include one or more of the following as determined by the state: ​

• For the class of 2025, earn a score of 472 on their 10th grade ELA MCAS; For class 2026 and beyond, a score of 486 will be the minimum requirement to satisfy the English language criteria.

     or

• Earn a score 455 on 10th grade ELA MCAS and complete an Educational Proficiency Plan

2.  Non-English Language Criteria:

Students shall demonstrate proficiency in the language other than English by demonstrating proficiency on a validated test of proficiency as determined by the state. States will determine the assessments that are acceptable for purposes of demonstrating proficiency in a language other than English.

• Earn a minimum score equivalent to Intermediate-High of the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines of 2012 on a state approved assessment

​*Additionally, students must meet all graduation requirements as outlined in the FHS Program of Studies.

Criteria for the State Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction

1. English Language Criteria:

Same as above but meeting or exceeding the Advanced threshold scaled score of 501 for the Next-Gen ELA MCAS.

2.  Non-English Language Criteria:

Same as above but scoring at the Advanced-Low level of the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines of 2012 on an assessment approved by DESE or demonstrating an Advanced-Low level of proficiency through an alternative assessment. 

​*Additionally, students must meet all graduation requirements as outlined in the FHS Program of Studies.