Graduation Seal Recognitions
In Oakland Unified School District (OUSD), high school students can receive up to two state-issued seals on their diplomas: the Seal of Biliteracy and the Seal of Civic Engagement.
What are the Seals
Seal of Biliteracy
- An award given by the State of California recognizing proficiency in reading, writing and speaking in English and at least one other language
- A gold seal appears on the diploma and the award is documented on your transcript
- Statement of accomplishment
Seal of Civic Engagement
- An award given by the state of California recognizing student participation in community service
- A gold seal appears on the diploma and the award is documented on your transcript
What are the benefits?
College apps!
Make your college application more competitive for admissions and scholarships.
Credits!
Some colleges are beginning to award college credits based on the Seal of Biliteracy recognition.
Be acknowledged for making change as a leader at your school and in your community.
Career opportunities
- Study of the demand for bilingualism in careers found that in every industry, bilingualism was a desirable trait for some or all positions. Overall, 66% of employers responded that they would select a bilingual employee over a monolingual one if other factors are equal.
- Demonstration of civic engagement is a valued skill set in many fields including law, education, non-profit work, public service, etc.
