It is the policy of the Seattle School Board to permit competency or proficiency high school credit for World Language for which a student can demonstrate proficiency across a range of language skills using a district-approved assessment process.   

Competency-based credits can help students demonstrate and validate expertise they have already gained, including through natural or heritage language experiences, and can allow students to open up time in their schedules to pursue other interests. 

Granting competency-based credit for World Languages allows students to gain high school credit through their experiences of using the language at home, attending language programs in the community, or living abroad.  For the purposes of this policy, “World Languages” includes those languages that are only spoken or signed. 

Additional subjects may be added to this policy upon guidance by the State Board of Education or the Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction. 

The Superintendent is directed to develop procedures for awarding World Language high school credits to students based on demonstrated proficiency across a range of language skills. 

This policy is effective beginning with the 2011-2012 school year.