Growth continues as 45 B.M.C. Durfee High School students earn the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy

Fall River Public Schools has announced that 45 B.M.C. Durfee High School students from the Class of 2026 have earned the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Seal of Biliteracy. This marks the district’s highest number of recipients to date and reflects continued growth from just 14 students in 2022.

Among this year’s honorees, eight students earned the Seal of Biliteracy with Distinction, the program’s highest honor.

Durfee students earned the Seal in the following languages: Spanish, Portuguese, French, Haitian Creole, Vietnamese, and Filipino/Tagalog.

In 2026, Durfee administered Seal of Biliteracy assessments across 10 different languages, with several students demonstrating proficiency in more than one language.

This year’s recipients reflect the rich cultural and linguistic diversity of Fall River: • 11 former English Learners • 10 current English Learners • 24 native English speakers

The graduating seniors received Seal of Biliteracy honor cords to wear at commencement, distinguishing them at graduation for their multilingual achievement.

The Seal of Biliteracy is awarded to students who demonstrate high levels of proficiency in speaking, reading, writing, and listening in English and at least one additional language. The Seal appears on students’ diplomas and transcripts, signaling to colleges and employers that graduates are prepared to thrive in a multilingual and interconnected world.

Massachusetts adopted the Seal of Biliteracy in 2017 to recognize the value of multilingualism, encourage students to pursue advanced language study, and celebrate linguistic achievement.

Interim Superintendent Dr. Kathleen Smith praised the students, saying, “We are incredibly proud of these bilingual scholars who have demonstrated the dedication and intellectual agility required to master multiple languages. The number of Fall River students earning the Seal of Biliteracy this year is a testament to the district’s commitment to preparing our graduates for college, career, and life.”

“This accomplishment highlights the district’s commitment to academic excellence, language development, and celebrating cultural and linguistic diversity,” said Dr. Shelly Silvia, World Languages Department Head at Durfee.

To learn more about the Seal of Biliteracy, visit: https://durfee.fallriverschools.org/school-counseling/seal-of-biliteracy