6 Things School Leaders Should Consider When Considering an Esports Program
Esports isn’t just about playing video games — it’s a growing industry offering students a pathway to high-paying STEM and tech careers. At the 2024 Making Schools Work Conference, Jill Ranucci, a longtime career and technical education director, shared her experience helping schools set up academic esports programs across the U.S.
With over 600 universities now offering esports programs, there’s never been a better time for schools to consider starting one. Here are six things from Ranucci’s session that school leaders should consider if you are considering adding an esports program to your school.
1. Esports Is More Than Gaming
While esports may look like “just gaming” on the surface, Ranucci explained that an academic esports program goes far beyond that. Esports connects students to potential careers in IT, marketing, coding and more.
In fact, some states, including Arizona, Georgia and Texas, already have esports pathways in place as part of their CTE programs. These programs introduce students to the high-tech, high-demand skills that drive the esports industry.
Starting an esports program with academics in mind makes it more than a club or a hobby. It becomes a stepping-stone toward real-world careers for students.
2. Esports Can Connect to Academic Pathways and Certifications
The best esports programs are linked to academic and career pathways, providing students with access to valuable certifications. Ranucci emphasized the importance of integrating esports with CTE programs like game design, coding and video production. Students in these programs can work toward certifications in programming languages and platforms like Python, Unity and C# that they can use directly in the workforce or as part of a college portfolio.
For students pursuing careers in software development, broadcasting or event management, an academic esports program can set them up for future success, all while keeping them engaged in learning.
3. A Successful Esports Program Connects With the Community
Building community partnerships is another essential step to creating an esports program.
Ranucci shared an example from Hawaii, where Farrington High School’s esports program launched with support from local hospitals, businesses and even the Air Force. By building connections with local industries, Farrington was able to provide students with insights into tech careers and internships, making the esports program even more valuable.
If you’re considering starting an esports program, consider partnerships with local businesses or tech organizations. These groups can provide resources, sponsorships and even job opportunities for your students while demonstrating the value of esports as a career pathway.
4. Esports Programs Are Best When They Include All Students, Not Just Gamers
Esports is a unique opportunity to involve students who may not feel connected to traditional sports or clubs. Ranucci pointed out that esports can be highly inclusive, offering a team experience to students with special needs and those interested in areas like coding, marketing and event management.
Consider making esports part of the school day. By offering it as a class, you open the door for students who may not join an after-school activity but are interested in the technology and teamwork esports offers. It’s a chance for all students — not just the best players — to get involved, gain confidence and build valuable skills.
5. Esports Programs Can Focus on Skills That Matter in the Job Market
Esports helps students build communication, teamwork and analytical thinking skills, all of which are in high demand. Players can learn everything from strategic thinking to leadership, and they also gain experience in roles like video editing, marketing and production.
By focusing on these skills, an esports program can prepare students for both college and careers. Employers in the tech industry , value analytical thinking and technical know-how—both of which esports fosters.
6. You Can Leverage National Trends to Garner Support
Esports is growing fast, with over 600 universities now offering programs and scholarships. For school leaders, this trend is an important talking point. Students in high school esports programs have a direct path to higher education opportunities, which can help them secure scholarships and internships.
If you’re pitching an esports program to your school board or community, point to this growing trend in colleges and the financial support available to esports students. It’s a compelling reason to consider esports as a serious academic and career pathway.
Conclusion
As Jill Ranucci’s work shows, an academic esports program can be a powerful tool for student engagement and career readiness. By connecting esports to CTE pathways, building community support and focusing on valuable job skills, school leaders can create a program that offers more than just a game — it offers a future.
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