November 7, 2022
WHITTIER, CA - On November 7, the Los Nietos School District hosted the grand opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony for their Esports Classroom, a new room equipped with the latest gaming technology that will enhance middle school students' critical thinking, problem-solving, and communications skills.
“The Board of Trustees is continuously looking for ways to bring our students technology that can influence their futures,” said Board President Emilio Sosa. “The Esports Classroom can be a gateway to STEAM-related career pathways such as game design, web development, information technology, and engineering.”
Esports is a term derived from “electronic sports” and is a high-level video game competition, similar to traditional sports. The room includes gaming systems, monitors, and plenty of comfortable seating. To be part of an esports team, students must practice key collaboration skills, active listening, and contribute their own perspectives.
“We’re excited to welcome another great partnership to the District,” said Interim-Superintendent Dr. William W. Gideon, Jr. “Esports competitions will offer students an improved sense of belonging, encourage higher GPAs, and increase participation in after-school programs.”
Scholastic Esports looks to foster the intentional use of video games as a vehicle for students who may not fall within other sectors of S.T.E.A.M. Currently, nine of S.T.E.A.M. Academic Sectors fall under esports.
“With this partnership, we are helping students to assess their skills and passions while also working to reduce the perceived stigma of gaming,” said Kevin Brown, Chief Academic Officer with the North America Scholastic Esports Federation. “There are 120 types of jobs requiring skills that students develop through esports, not only through the competitive aspects but through an interrelated ecosystem. We’re proud to be creating an innovative pathway to college and career possibilities.”
A five-year study done with UC Irvine showed that communication, relationships, school engagement, constructive mindset, wellness, and self-regulation all increased among students.