Maryland § 7-208
Full text of Maryland Maryland Code § 7-208, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 7-208.
(a) (1) In this section the following words have the meanings indicated.
(2) “Eligible student” means a student who attends a public high school that participates in the Maryland Seal of Biliteracy Program.
(3) (i) “Foreign language” means a language other than English.
(ii) “Foreign language” includes American Sign Language and any Native American language.
(4) “Program” means the Maryland Seal of Biliteracy Program.
(b) There is a Maryland Seal of Biliteracy Program that recognizes public high school graduates in the State who have attained proficiency in speaking, reading, and writing in one or more languages in addition to English.
(c) The purpose of the Program is to promote linguistic proficiency and cultural literacy in one or more languages in addition to English and to provide recognition of the attainment of those skills by affixing a Seal of Biliteracy to the student’s diploma or transcript at graduation, at no cost to the student.
(d) (1) Participation in the Program by a local school system is voluntary.
(2) If a local school system chooses to participate in the Program, an individual school may not opt out of participation in the Program.
(e) (1) Beginning with the graduating class of 2017, each eligible student who meets the criteria and requirements established by the State Board in accordance with subsection (f)(1) of this section shall receive a Seal of Biliteracy.
(2) A Seal of Biliteracy shall be affixed to the student’s diploma or transcript at graduation.
(f) On or before October 1, 2016, the State Board shall:
(1) Establish criteria and requirements a student must meet to receive a Seal of Biliteracy; and
(2) Provide information to each local school system regarding how to participate in and how to implement the Program.
(g) A local school system participating in the Program shall:
(1) Maintain records necessary for determining a student’s eligibility for a Seal of Biliteracy; and
(2) Affix a Seal of Biliteracy to the diploma or transcript of every eligible student meeting the criteria and requirements established by the State Board in accordance with subsection (f)(1) of this section.
(h) The State Board shall adopt regulations to carry out this section.
Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland § 7-208
What does Maryland Code § 7-208 cover?
Section 7-208 is part of the Maryland Code, the codified statutory law of Maryland. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Maryland § 7-208?
A common citation format is "Maryland Code § 7-208" (Maryland). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Maryland law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Maryland official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Maryland attorney.
How does Maryland § 7-208 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Maryland can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Maryland.