Eight Middleton High School seniors will graduate this year with a unique symbol of their commitment to multilingualism and multiculturalism: the Seal of Biliteracy.
Students who earn the seal have demonstrated advanced fluency and communication skills in English and a partner language, and have developed a deep appreciation for different cultures. Wisconsin’s Seal of Biliteracy program differs from the global version by requiring a sociocultural competency component in addition to tests.
“One of the most beautiful things about it is that it celebrates the linguistic diversity of our community,” said Mandi Sersch-Morstad, Director of Multilingual Services. “It’s a really special honor when kids get to celebrate any language they’ve learned, whether it’s at home or at school.”
MCPASD started offering the seal in the 2022-23 school year, making the typical four-year process even shorter for all of the recipients so far. As the program marks the end of its third year in the District, leaders hope participants will not only stand out to potential employers and schools, but also feel a sense of pride in our community.
The Board of Education proudly recognized this year’s recipients during the May 19, 2025, Board meeting. Sofia Altuzar, Emma Cavazos, Micah Hees, Jayda Mand, and Sophia Ynclan each earned their seal in Spanish. Oskar Siemsen earned his seal in German, and Sofia Ortiz-Lunyova earned her seal in Russian and Spanish.
Lydia Sabat, who earned her seal in Polish, said the most rewarding part of the process was her volunteer work at a nonprofit in Poland that supports adults with special needs. With plans to study Materials Science & Engineering at the University of Wisconsin-Madison next year, she said the seal is an asset to her career goals and honors her heritage.
“I decided to pursue a Seal of Biliteracy because I was raised with a Polish-American linguistic and cultural influence as my parents are from Poland,” Lydia said. “The Seal of Biliteracy highlights my cross-cultural competency and will be useful if I am part of future global research-based efforts or working in Poland.”
Sofia Altuzar will pursue a double major in Spanish and International Relations at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She said the seal reflects how much her bilingualism is a part of her everyday life.
“Although I take English and Spanish classes in high school, the contexts and themes that were explored throughout the Seal were very unique,” Sofia said. “My goal is to someday use both of my languages in whichever career path I choose to follow, whether it be in diplomacy or some other form of foreign policy.”
Congratulations to this year’s recipients on their outstanding achievement! Visit the MCPASD Seal of Biliteracy website to learn more about the program’s benefits and how to start the process.