It’s game on for Dallas ISD students.
Dallas ISD is bringing esports, which is competitive electronic gaming, to more than 60 schools this year as it looks to meet its goal of getting all students involved in an extracurricular activity.
(See the participating schools)
Originally planned for 20 schools, the overwhelming interest in esports inspired the Student Activities Department to consider bringing the program to 64 campuses. At the recent Dallas ISD Board Briefing, trustees expressed enthusiasm about the program, that will serve middle and high schools through season passes, equipment, tournaments and incentives.
“This will get hundreds of our students–who are not involved in any other activities–working together and having fun, being part of a team, and reaping the benefits of extracurricular activities,” said Student Activities Director Sharla Hudspeth.
More than 300 students eagerly attended the Dallas ISD esports program kickoff on Saturday, Sept. 21. Justin Rojas, the vice president of events for esports powerhouse Team Envy and Dallas Fuel, told the students that Dallas is the national leader in the esports industry.
“There are so many esports opportunities here in Dallas,” Rojas said. “I’m excited to see what you guys are going to go on to do.”
The esports program will be separated into the Middle School Club League and High School Competitive League. Middle school students will compete in the games Rocket League and Super Smash, and high school students will compete in League of Legends, Rocket League and Super Smash.
In her presentation to trustees, Hudspeth pointed out that more than 250 universities and colleges now offer esports scholarships.
“This is so relevant to so many of our students,” Hudspeth said. “We are thankful to the trustees and our district leadership for supporting this effort as we reach out to get more Dallas ISD students involved.”
