World Languages Department

Introduction

The mission of the Paterson Public Schools World Languages Department is to develop multilingual, culturally competent, and socially responsible graduates who communicate effectively in more than one language and thrive in an interconnected global society.

We believe multilingualism lives at the heart of Paterson, interwoven across neighborhoods, classrooms, and families, enriching our community and empowering our students. Grounded in this belief, we recognize multilingualism as a powerful asset that strengthens individuals, schools, and the broader community, and we affirm that every student brings valuable linguistic and cultural knowledge that must be honored and cultivated through meaningful communication rather than isolated memorization. We are committed to equitable access through offering opportunities for students to use language as a tool for connection, leadership, service, and academic advancement by offering rigorous pathways such as Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, heritage language programs, and the New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy.

Contact

Kayla Khaled

Supervisor of World Languages
kkhaled@paterson.k12.nj.us

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Course Offerings

Paterson Public Schools offers a comprehensive, proficiency-based World Language program that reflects the multilingual fabric of our community. Aligned to the New Jersey Student Learning Standards for World Languages and ACTFL proficiency targets, instruction emphasizes authentic texts, real world communication, future ready skills, and meaningful cultural exploration.

Our program includes elementary and middle school World Language courses. While providing early exposure, building linguistic and cultural foundations, they also ensure students enter high school prepared for accelerated and proficiency-based pathways.

Learners may enter high school courses based on demonstrated proficiency through district placement exams and have opportunities to participate in nationally recognized assessments leading to the New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy. Advanced Placement programs consistently rank among the highest performing AP programs in the district with dual enrollment opportunities, reflecting our commitment to excellence and access for all learners.

Spanish Grades k-12

French Grades 9-12

Arabic Grades 5-12

Mandarin Chinese Grades 9-12

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NJ Seal of Biliteracy

Program Description

The NJ Seal of Biliteracy certifies that a student is biliterate in English and another language. Students who are proficient in English and meet the Intermediate-Mid proficiency level assessment determined by the New Jersey Department of Education in a World Language will receive the NJ State Seal of Biliteracy certificate and will have this notated on their transcript. This opportunity is offered to all qualifying juniors and seniors in Paterson Public Schools.

Bilingual means that a person can speak and understand two languages. Biliterate means a student can read, write, speak and understand two languages. Students who earn this recognition are biliterate.

Note: This distinction is viewed as an asset when applying for scholarships, college admissions, and/or a job.

Who is Eligible for the New Jersey Seal of Biliteracy?

Students in 11th or 12th grade can earn the Seal of Biliteracy if they show they are strong in English and another language.

To qualify, students must:

1. Show they are proficient in English. This is demonstrated by passing a state English test (such as the NJGPA or NJSLA).

2. Show they are proficient in another language
In Paterson Public Schools, students must first take a screening exam (offered in October) to demonstrate their ability. If a student meets the qualifier, they may then take the STAMP test in January.

Students may also earn the Seal of Biliteracy by earning a qualifying score on an AP World Language exam (such as AP Spanish)

Who can earn it?

Students taking world language classes in advanced levels
Multilingual learners who speak another language at home
Heritage speakers who already know another language and can read and write it at a high level

Sample Tests

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