On March 11, 2024 Noah Gibson, senior at Abingdon High School, was recognized by Dr. Keith Perrigan and the Washington County School Board for his achievement of the Global Seal of Biliteracy with a certification of Working Fluency. He is the first student in Washington County Public Schools to be recognized with this accomplishment.
To be awarded the Global Seal of Biliteracy and to achieve certification at a Working Fluency level, one must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in their first language through ACT or SAT scores and must be able to demonstrate a proficiency level of Advanced on the ACTFL scale of language proficiency in four components: Interpretive Reading, Presentational Writing, Interpretive Listening, and Interpersonal Listening/Speaking. Achievement of working fluency in biliteracy requires dedication, practice, and exposure to authentic language usage. Language exchanges and culturally relevant learning materials can significantly enhance language acquisition and fluency development. Noah has exhibited such a profound understanding of linguistic nuances, cultural intricacies, and a genuine appreciation for diverse perspectives, all of which are invaluable assets in today's interconnected world and in demonstrating proficiency for the Global Seal.
The Global Seal of Biliteracy: Why Working Fluency is an Impressive Achievement
A certification of Working Fluency for the Global Seal of Biliteracy goes beyond basic proficiency; it denotes a level of mastery that allows individuals to navigate complex linguistic landscapes with ease. The importance of working fluency in biliteracy cannot be overstated. Statistically only 13% who test for the Global Seal receive certification at the Working Fluency level with 86% demonstrating less developed skills at the Functional Fluency level. In the context of biliteracy, working fluency enables individuals to engage in meaningful communication, both written and spoken, in two distinct languages. In an increasingly globalized marketplace, companies value employees who can effectively communicate with clients, partners, and colleagues across linguistic boundaries. Possessing working fluency in multiple languages opens up a world of career opportunities, from international business and diplomacy to translation and interpretation. On the personal front, working fluency in multiple languages fosters a deeper understanding of different cultures and perspectives. It facilitates meaningful connections with people from diverse backgrounds, enriching one's social experiences and broadening horizons.
The Global Seal of Biliteracy complements and supports the individual state Seals of Biliteracy, but also allows recipients to showcase their language skills to any school or employer across state lines and international borders. And as we celebrate Noah’s outstanding accomplishment, let’s applaud also the language students of Washington County Public Schools who have received the Virginia state Seal of Biliteracy. Through his dedication and perseverance, Noah has demonstrated to all language learners what is possible.