The recipients of the Seal of Biliteracy were announced on Tuesday, March 13.

Students who received the Gold Award were seniors Marrissa Raynesford, Kai Schaffer and Fernando Zarate.

Those who received the Silver Award were seniors Gabe Garcia, Ginny Ke, Cristina Leos, Andrea Lopez, McKena McBride, Nic Park, Bill Scott and Sydney Walker.

When Walker found out she passed, she said she was both happy and shocked.

“I honestly didn’t think I did that well,” Walker said. “I feel like it shows that I have learned something from Spanish class.”

Walker said the Seal of Biliteracy could be useful in her future.

“I would use this in my career since I want to major in business,” Walker said. “I could have to talk to or translate for workers, or if I wanted to make my business international, this could be really helpful.”

Raynesford agreed she will most likely use her Seal of Biliteracy in her future career.

“I think it’s important to know a second language so that you can communicate with more people,” Raynesford said. “By learning Spanish, I’ve been able to learn about a new culture and get to have meaningful conversations with someone I wouldn’t have been able to speak to in English. It opens up so many more opportunities to meet new people. I love it.”

21mmcbride@usd489.com