For the first time ever, Jamesville-DeWitt High School offered — and subsequently awarded — the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) to several seniors. Students presented in Spanish, English and Mandarin Chinese. The seal recipients are: Tracey Edson (Spanish), Luke Hobika (Spanish), Lanya Liebler-Bendix (Mandarin Chinese), and Sabina Muradova (English). 

The NYSSB recognizes high school graduates who have attained a high level of proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages, in addition to English. While encouraging the study of languages, the NYSSB also identifies high school graduates with language and biliteracy skills for employers and prepares students with 21st-century skills. The seal recognizes the value of foreign and native language instruction in schools and affirms the value of diversity in a multilingual society.

Receiving the NYSSB is proof of the hard work that students have done to become culturally competent citizens who can communicate with others on a global level. Congratulations to the seal recipients for rising to the challenge and achieving this outstanding accomplishment.