Today, June 25, Oneonta High School proudly recognized twelve outstanding students for their achievements in language proficiency during a Seal of Biliteracy ceremony held in the OHS Library Reference Room. Surrounded by teachers, staff, family, and peers, students were honored with medallions symbolizing their commitment to academic excellence and advanced language study.
The New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) is awarded to high school graduates who demonstrate a high level of proficiency in English and at least one other world language. The program promotes the study of world languages, prepares students for future academic and career opportunities, and underscores the value of language in communication and scholarship. Students who earn the Seal receive an official insignia on their diploma and wear a medallion at graduation.
To qualify for the Seal at Oneonta High School, students must complete college-level coursework in French, Spanish, or German with a grade of 85 or higher—or pass an approved assessment in another language spoken at home. In addition, they must demonstrate advanced proficiency in English through high academic performance in upper-level English courses and success on the English Regents Exam. The final requirement is a research presentation, delivered in both English and the world language, evaluated by a panel of fluent reviewers.
This year, the following seniors from the Class of 2025 earned the Seal of Biliteracy:
Bryson Huber – French & English
Lauren Huber – French & English
Tyr Melligan – French & English
Alex Pentzien – French & English
Logan Temming – German & English
Wyndam Withington- French & English
Maia Woertendyke – French & English
The following juniors from the Class of 2026 successfully completed their culminating project presentations and are on track to earn the Seal next year, pending fulfillment of the English language requirements:
Hudson Pasternak – Spanish & English
Luna Rios – Spanish & English
Devin Sailer – German & English
Anna Schultz – French & English
Selina Scianimanico – Danish & English
Malena Scimeca – French & English
Presentations were reviewed by members of the World Language, English, and Social Studies departments, as well as building and district administrators. Oneonta High School was also fortunate to welcome Dr. Achim Koedderman (German) and Dr. Toke Knudsen (Danish), professors at SUNY Oneonta, as guest reviewers.
OHS school counselor Ms. Noyes expressed her pride in the students' accomplishments, noting that “the culminating project is an intense and independent pursuit. These students demonstrated incredible proficiency in these languages, facilitated independent research, and challenged themselves intellectually. Many of them intend to continue their world language study in college.”
Mr. Stevens also addressed the group, describing the Seal of Biliteracy as the students’ “world language capstone,” a fitting tribute to the years of dedication and study that led to this achievement.
During the ceremony, Ms. Noyes presented each student with their official certificate, and Mr. Stevens presented them with their medallions, which may be worn during the graduation ceremony this Saturday.
The event brought together about 40 attendees for a celebratory luncheon, with faculty and staff contributing a variety of dishes. It was a meaningful gathering that reflected the time, talent, and determination each student invested in earning this distinguished honor.
Oneonta High School congratulates all of this year’s honorees and applauds their academic achievement and perseverance. Their success sets a strong example for future students and reinforces the value of advanced language study.
