MEDIA CONTACT: Matt Cardoza, GaDOE Communications Office, (404) 651-7358, mcardoza@gadoe.org

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August 25, 2015 – Starting with the 2015-16 school year, Georgia will offer an International Skills Diploma Seal to graduates who demonstrate a strong interest in international business and policy. Georgia will be one of only three states (Wisconsin and North Carolina) in the nation to offer a global competence/global readiness seal or certificate to graduating high school students. The seal will serve as a signal to employers that students have engaged in courses and extracurricular activities that foster global competencies.

“In today’s economy, it is more important than ever that students are prepared to participate in the global workforce,” State School Superintendent Richard Woods said. “The International Skills Diploma Seal will recognize students who engage in international education through courses, extra-curricular activities and service opportunities. It’s an honor for the student and a signal for employers and universities that this student is ready to participate at a global level.”

To be awarded the International Skills Diploma Seal, students need to complete:

·        Coursework

o   At least three credits in the same world language and/or ESOL

o   At least four credits of coursework with an international focus (examples: international economics, world/non-U.S. history, world geography, comparative literatures)

·        At least four extra-curricular activities and experiences with global themes and/or in global contexts (examples: exchange programs, international and language clubs)

·        20 hours of community service involving a global/cross-cultural public service project (example: fundraising for an international nonprofit organization)

·        Capstone presentation

"The requirements to receive the International Skills Diploma Seal will help provide students with skills that are necessary to be successful in today’s work environment," said Michaela Claus-Nix, GaDOE Program Specialist for World Languages and Workforce Initiatives. "These are all essential soft skills needed in any career in the interconnected business world."

Schools and districts have received detailed information on the International Skills Diploma Seal program and will communicate that information to eligible students.

The International Skills Diploma Seal is one of several programs in the Educating Georgia’s Future Workforce initiative, which is aimed at increasing the state’s focus on career education and expanding partnerships with the business community.