Frankfort High School’s Seal of Biliteracy: A Growing Program with Big Ambitions
At Frankfort High School, the Seal of Biliteracy program is thriving, thanks to supportive administration and a passionate educator at the helm. Led by Melony Martinez, a dedicated Spanish teacher and advocate for multilingual learning, the program is not only gaining recognition, but also expanding its impact on students and the community.
Building a Strong Foundation for Language Learning
The Seal of Biliteracy, introduced at Frankfort High School last year, recognizes students who demonstrate proficiency in English and at least one other language. The program had a promising start, with three students—Brian Escobar, Alex Gonzalez, and William Hernandez—earning the seal in its inaugural year. The recognition went beyond the district level, with Brian Escobar also receiving the Global Seal of Biliteracy.
Alex Gonzalez Lacayo, Jr., Seal of Biliteracy Recipient
William Nolberto Hernandez, Seal of Biliteracy Recipient
Bryan Escobar, Seal of Biliteracy and Global Functional Fluency Recipient
Martinez attributes the program’s success to a strong network of support, including a district superintendent and principal who champion world language education. The administration’s commitment is evident, with Frankfort High School’s principal, Thad Elmore, earning the Kentucky World Language Associations’ Administrator of the Year Award for his efforts. This support has enabled the program to expand the offerings available, providing students with more advanced opportunities to develop their language skills.
KWLA Administrator of the Year, Thad Elmore and
Melony Martinez, Spanish Honor Society Sponsor and Teacher
Expanding Opportunities Beyond the Classroom
Under Martinez’s leadership, Frankfort High School’s language programs have grown rapidly. Addison Baker, president of the Spanish Honor Society, a small chapter in the district, led the group to be recognized with the Chapter of the Year award from the American Association of Teachers of Spanish and Portuguese (AATSP). This national recognition reflects the high level of dedication from both the students and educators.
Melony Martinez, Spanish Honor Society Sponsor and Teacher and
AATSP SHH Chapter of the Year president, Addison Baker
The program doesn’t stop at coursework and awards. Students are encouraged to engage with language in practical and creative ways. This year Spanish II students are creating bilingual books using Book Creator, with the aim of sharing their work with younger students at Second Street Elementary. The initiative, part of a broader focus on biliteracy and literacy in Kentucky, exemplifies how language learning can extend beyond the classroom and contribute to the community.
Martinez also inspires her students to explore beyond traditional learning methods. For over 16 years, she has partnered with the Living Arts and Science Center in Lexington to display student art projects for Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The tradition not only showcases the students’ creativity, but also exposes them to Hispanic culture, broadening their understanding of different cultural traditions.
One student remarked, “This is the only time I’ve ever been exposed to different cultural things like this before.” Such experiences demonstrate the broader educational value of world language programs, providing students with insights into global cultures.
Looking Ahead
The program at Frankfort High School continues to grow, with leaders aiming to broaden course offerings and increase the number of students earning the Seal of Biliteracy each year. Martinez continues to be dedicated to creating a vibrant learning environment that empowers students to explore their passion for language and culture. As the World Language program expands, it not only prepares students for future academic and career opportunities but also nurtures a lifelong appreciation for languages and cultures.
To learn more about the Kentucky Seal of Biliteracy, please visit the Seal of Biliteracy page on the KDE website.
