Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy (OSSB)

Purpose

The Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy (OSSB) was created to recognize student proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in two or more languages. The state established this program to:

  1. recognize and value the heritage language/s students speak and bring to their English academic studies 

  1. value world language programs in schools, and 

  1. encourage students to study world languages. 

Connection to the SNJM Charism

The program celebrates language study, an endeavor that supports the full development of the human person. Learning a language requires humility, courage, compassion, flexibility, and grace. Effective communication and understanding of cultural differences support both individual and social flourishing. St. Mary’s Academy models hospitality in its embrace of world languages and celebration of the value of other cultures and ways of being. Recognizing students whose home languages are not taught in school and those who have prepared themselves to serve the poor and marginalized by crossing language divides embodies the SNJM charism.  

Award and Recognition

This award is bestowed upon qualified students who apply to and are approved by the State of Oregon. Students who earn this award receive: 

  • a seal from the State of Oregon which they may affix to their diploma 

  • a gold-and-green Biliteracy Cord to wear at graduation* 

  • recognition in the graduation program*

*If evidence is submitted before the May 1 deadline. 

OSSB Timeline 2026

IMPORTANT NOTE: Participation in this program is voluntary, and since this program is run by the State of Oregon, deadlines are NOT flexible. All students are welcome to participate, but it is up to the student to monitor deadlines, provide approved evidence (official test scores), and fill out required surveys and subsequent paperwork in a timely manner. 

February   

Interest Survey responses due 3pm February 27 - '25-'26 SURVEY & APPLICATION WINDOW NOW CLOSED.
March & April   

March 16 (Rose Day) STAMP World Language tests administered beginning at 1:30

Thursday, April 9th 3:30 - 5:30pm: STAMP English tests administered

Saturday, April 11 at 8:30am: STAMP Make-up exams 
May

  • AP testing*

  • May 1 VP of Academics sends names of qualified students and approved evidence to the state for final approval 
June

State sends VP of Academics diploma seals for students approved in May 
July May AP Scores Available
September
  • VP of Academics sends names of qualified graduates who took AP tests in May to the state for final approval 
  • State sends VP of Academics diploma seals for students approved in July; seals are mailed home to graduates

 

*Seniors who take the AP exam in May will not receive scores until July. They can still earn the diploma seal retroactively and will receive the seal later in the fall of their graduation year but will not be eligible in time to receive the graduation cord or be recognized for the seal in the graduation program. They will have to communicate with the VP of Academics to share their mailing address so that they can receive their seal in the mail over the summer. 

OSSB FAQ's

How to Apply

The Application process for the 2025-2026 school year is now CLOSED. 

The application process for the '26-'27 school year will open in January 2027. Email Ms. Gilbert for more information.