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Students from the first class of fine arts and dual language program

Last month, 59 ninth grade students in the 91��Ƭ��’s fine arts and dual language program were awarded the Global Seal of Biliteracy award during a ceremony at the Dr. Marcelo Cavazos Center for Visual & Performing Arts.

“Pioneers” is how Dr. Matt Varnell, the principal at Gunn Junior High and Fine Arts and Dual Language, described the students.

Ten years ago, they were all kindergarteners at either Corey or Jones fine arts and dual language academy – the first class in the district’s innovative new fine arts and dual language program. The program teaches students in English and Spanish with the aim to develop fluency in both.

“When we started this program nearly 10 years ago, it was just a hope, and seeing that vision come to life fills me with the most pride,” said Jones’ principal Katiuska Herrador, who has been at the school since year one. “This achievement is a testament to the students’ hard work and commitment to bilingualism and biliteracy, as well as to the incredible teachers who have guided and supported them along the way. I remember when they were so tiny, just starting kindergarten, and now seeing them thriving in high school with endless possibilities ahead is heartwarming. What an incredible journey!”

It’s a journey that is still going. After the students finished at Corey and Jones, they went to junior high at Gunn. Now, they are the first ninth grade class of fine arts and dual language students at Arlington High School.

Principals (from left to right) Dr. Matt Varnell (Gunn), Katiuska Herrador (Jones) and Cynthia Anthony (Corey)

But even though they are only freshmen in high school, they have already achieved biliteracy.

“You have acquired one of the biggest gifts that there is,” Varnell said to the students. “The gift of being bilingual is a gift that will stay with your forever.”

Dr. Ruth Martin knows that truth personally. Martin is the program coordinator for the Global Seal of Biliteracy program in 91��Ƭ�� and a lead specialist for the 91��Ƭ�� world languages department. She is also originally from Spain.

“Being bilingual has opened so many doors for me,” Martin said. “As the program coordinator, I am thrilled to provide students with this internationally recognized award. I can’t wait to hear about the future opportunities, such as scholarships, internships and employment that students will be able to access through their Global Seal of Biliteracy awards.”

�ճ����is an international credential that recognizes proficiency in two or more languages. This award validates language skills, providing recognition, advanced placement in language programs and opportunities for scholarships and jobs.

91��Ƭ�� department of world languages applies on behalf of qualifying students for the �ұ��Dz����������𲹱����Ǵ������������ٱ����������certification. Students who qualify receive their diplomas and are recognized with medals or pins.

Watching the students get their medals was a special moment for Corey principal Cynthia Anthony.

“It was an incredible opportunity to celebrate the hard work and achievement of the students in our fine arts and dual language program,” Anthony said. “This group of ninth graders is the first cohort of our specialized program, and it has been very special to watch them grow since kindergarten. I am beyond proud to see what a positive impact our program is making in the lives of 91��Ƭ�� students, and I can’t wait to see what they will do next!”