11 Gettysburg Grads Earn Biliteracy Seal in Record Year

Eleven graduates from Gettysburg Area High School walked across the stage Wednesday night carrying something special alongside their diplomas: proof they can connect with the world in more than one language.

The Class of 2026 set a school record with the most students ever earning Pennsylvania's Seal of Biliteracy. The recognition proves fluency in English and at least one additional language.

For twins Nicolas and Sofia Oshunrinade, language has been part of their lives from day one. Their mother, who teaches Spanish at Gettysburg College, raised them bilingual in a home where two cultures blended naturally.

"Language connects people," Sofia said. "Without being able to know another language, you lose that connection to different backgrounds and cultures."

Nicolas sees the seal as more than a graduation honor. "It opens doors," he explained, "whether it's traveling, studying abroad or future careers."

Claire Jurney, whose mother immigrated from France and also teaches at Gettysburg College, earned the French biliteracy seal. She says the recognition validates years of dedication and prepares her for global opportunities beyond high school.

Seven other graduates earned the seal in Spanish: Dalianny Alvarez-Orihuela, Quinn Funk, Amelia Jones, Karen Rico Chimalpopoca, Beatrice Russell, Charlie Shull, and Kaya Jean Bugler. Lanie Jonas earned hers in German.

Nearly 250 students graduated during the ceremony at Warrior Stadium. Principal Jeremy Lusk reminded them to continue living the "Warrior Way" they learned throughout their time at Gettysburg: Be Here, Be Involved, Be Committed, and Be Kind.

The Ripple Effect

These bilingual graduates are entering a world that desperately needs bridge-builders. Their language skills will help them connect across cultures in careers, communities, and travels worldwide.

Many came from immigrant families who sacrificed everything for their children's education. Nicolas honored those journeys during his speech, speaking both in English and Spanish to represent the multilingual community that shaped him.

As valedictorian Kiran Platt told his classmates: embrace the randomness ahead, be spontaneous, and enjoy what comes next.

These graduates proved that honoring your heritage while building new skills creates something powerful: the ability to connect people across any divide.