In today's global society, learning a second language is key to understanding other cultures and becoming a global citizen. In providing that opportunity for students, the GHS World Languages department offers programs in French, German and Spanish. Students can take regular or honors classes in all three languages as well as Level V AP classes. Our World Languages classes offer authentic learning experiences for each of the target languages through the four essential components of reading, writing, speaking and listening.

Knowing a second language is a 21st century skill that gives students advantages in applying to colleges and for future career options. Most GHS students take 3-4 years of a World Language during high school; many even enroll in a second World Language. The WL department also offers student travel opportunities every year for authentic learning experiences. For the summer of 2023, there are two trips planned: one to Spain, and then a combined France and Germany trip. These trips allow students to enhance and expand on language and culture learned in the classroom.

Geneva High School is a Seal of Biliteracy school. We offer all juniors and seniors in levels IV and V of one of our World Languages classes the opportunity to take an exam to achieve the Seal of Biliteracy or the Commendation of Biliteracy recognition through the State of Illinois. The four components of the exam are: reading, writing, speaking and listening. This recognition goes on the student's diploma as well as their transcript and signifies that they have obtained a high level of proficiency in English as well as another world language. Juniors and seniors who are heritage speakers or fluent in a language not offered at GHS may also take the Seal of Biliteracy exam to qualify, provided that their English proficiency levels are adequate as defined by the State of Illinois. Students may request that their future college/university translate the Seal or Commendation into course credit. 

1) To register for the exam: *Closed September 22.  Speak with a WL teacher if you did not register in time.

2) To pay for the exam: Webstore

The registration window is open from September 12 - October 1. 

Testing Dates for 2023-2024: The week of March 4-8 (2024). Students will take the exams during their World Language class periods. Retakes will be the week of April 8, but they will be outside of the school day.

Resources: Students will be taking the STAMP 4S exam. For more information, check out their FAQ's and their sample tests.

Please ask your World Language teacher any questions you have about registering, where to find more information, or any other questions regarding the testing. You may also email Gina Thomas (Seal of Biliteracy Coordinator) at [email protected] or Jessie Egan (WL Department Chair) at [email protected] for more information.

For information regarding approved assessments and qualifying scores, please head to ISBE's Seal of Biliteracy page.