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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.