NEWS RELEASE from Cairo-Durham Central School District
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 28, 2026
Cairo-Durham High School Students Earn NYS Seal of Biliteracy
On Thursday, May 21, 2026, Cairo-Durham High School seniors Isaias Romero and Zoe Vogel earned the New York State Seal of Biliteracy (NYSSB) following the successful completion of their culminating presentations.
The New York State Seal of Biliteracy recognizes students who have demonstrated high proficiency in English and one or more world languages. The distinction is awarded by the Commissioner of Education and appears as a seal on the diploma and a medallion worn at graduation.
This marks the first time since 2022 that Cairo-Durham High School students have earned the NYS Seal of Biliteracy.
Zoe Vogel presented Mi Viaje a Costa Rica (“My Trip to Costa Rica”), sharing her experiences and cultural insights from her travels.
Isaías Romero presented La Importancia de la Diversidad Hispana en Nueva York (“The Importance of Hispanic Diversity in New York”), highlighting Hispanic culture, history, and traditions practiced throughout the state.
The students were evaluated by a panel consisting of two former educators, one representative from the Regional Bilingual Education Resource Network (RBERN), and an additional RBERN representative who served as coordinator.
Both students spent months preparing for their presentations.
ENL teacher Matthew Brooks said, “It was wonderful to see the confidence with which they presented their projects to the panel. Their months of hard work and preparation were evident in the way they spoke and answered questions without hesitation. Both presentations were very impressive, and we are so proud of them.”
ENL teacher Willow Zielenski said, “Zoe and Isaias both demonstrated strong Spanish language skills as well as poise during a challenging presentation. I am so proud of them and all of their efforts over the years, which led to two remarkable panel presentations. Congratulations to them both and to their families.”
Student Services Counselor Justin Karker said, “It’s hard to put into words how proud I am of both Zoe and Isaias for earning the New York State Seal of Biliteracy. It was a multiyear process, with this year focused on the presentation. They willingly gave their time to check in, accept feedback, practice and strengthen their language skills. A true testament to who they are and what they will become in the future. As a school community, we should applaud their efforts. They are truly global learners.”
Family members, teachers, and friends supported the presenters from a viewing room where the presentations were streamed via Google Meet. After the presentations, the students and their families celebrated the achievement with cake and refreshments.
Congratulations to Zoe and Isaias on this incredible achievement!
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