First, it’s important to make a distinction. While both traditional esports programs and academic esports revolve around video games, their goals and the benefits they offer students differ. Traditional esports programs often prioritize competition, providing students with the benefits of organized sports like teamwork, communication, and potential scholarships. However, only a small percentage of students earn scholarships, and even fewer go on to become professional esports players, leaving many untapped opportunities on the table.
Academic Esports, on the other hand, focuses on much more than just the competitive aspect of gaming. By integrating esports into the classroom, educators can harness its academic benefits—improving students' grades, boosting attendance, promoting interest in STEM, and establishing connections with CTE pathways. Careers in esports, such as game design, broadcasting, marketing, and IT, represent high-paying opportunities that traditional esports programs often overlook.
By adding an academic framework, esports becomes a gateway for developing real-world skills and exploring career pathways, ensuring that every student, not just the top players, can benefit from your school’s esports program.
Here are five different ways your school can implement Academic Esports, complete with real-world examples.
Example 1: Academic Esports as an Elective
At Santiago Charter Middle School in Orange County, California, Academic Esports is being taught as an elective class that combines game time with the development of real-world skills. Steven Van Smaalen, a middle school math teacher and esports coach, uses video games to drive interest in STEM fields and career readiness.
With support from the US Academic Esports League, Mr. Van’s program introduces students to new career pathways while fostering collaboration and problem-solving skills. In addition to the elective, the school also offers an esports club that competes in district tournaments, providing both academic and competitive benefits.
Watch the story of Santiago Charter Middle School here:
Takeaway: Elective classes like this one not only engage students academically but also cultivate their passions and prepare them for careers in technology, engineering, and other high-demand industries.
Example 2: Academic Esports as a CTE Class
Esports isn’t just about gaming; it’s a booming industry with countless career opportunities. Recognizing this potential, Robby LaPlante at Desert Ridge High School in Arizona has connected Academic Esports to several Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways.
Many schools focus on competing for trophies, but Robby’s approach gives his students the tools to explore careers in game design, software development, streaming, broadcasting, and more. The program bridges the gap between passion and purpose, preparing students for high-paying, in-demand careers while they enjoy gaming.
Learn more about Robby LaPlante’s CTE Esports Program here:
Takeaway: By aligning esports with CTE pathways, educators like Robby are equipping students with the skills to excel in the ever-expanding digital economy.
Example 3: Academic Esports for After-School Enrichment
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Academic Esports doesn’t need to be limited to the classroom. Programs like the Woodcraft Rangers are using USAEL’s curriculum in after-school enrichment programs, bringing engaging learning experiences to students of all ages. With the help of popular titles like Minecraft, Rocket League, and Mario Kart, after-school programs can teach valuable lessons in teamwork, strategy, and critical thinking.
See what it's like to be a part of our camps & clubs:
Takeaway: After-school programs are an excellent way to use Academic Esports to reach students who need engaging, purpose-driven activities that enrich their learning beyond the classroom.
Example 4: Academic Esports as a Districtwide Program
One inspiring example of Academic Esports integration is found in the Anaheim Union High School District, where Jason Collar, the district’s Community Schools lead, pioneered the districtwide esports initiative. With the administration’s support, Collar expanded the program across multiple schools, engaging hundreds of students in structured Academic Esports programs and competitions. By uniting students under a single vision, the Anaheim Union High School District demonstrates the transformative power of integrating esports at scale.
Learn more about Anaheim’s districtwide esports program here:
Takeaway: A districtwide program ensures equitable access to Academic Esports, creating opportunities for students across the board to grow academically, socially, and professionally.
Example 5: Academic Esports as a Competitive Sport
While many schools run esports programs just like any other sports team, they often miss the academic benefits that come with structured learning. Some competitive esports programs may only focus on tournaments and prizes, neglecting the career and educational pathways that academic esports can offer.
That’s why the USAEL platform combines the thrill of competition with a robust curriculum that emphasizes academic success and career readiness. Schools using this model can ensure that their esports programs benefit students holistically, making esports a meaningful part of their academic journey.
The USAEL is no stranger to esports competitions at scale. At our annual GamerFest event, students from the Clark County School District and several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) came together to compete on the stage of the massive Hyper X arena in Las Vegas, Nevada.
See highlights from the GamerFest Esports Competition:
Takeaway: Treating esports as a sports team is okay, but adding an academic element transforms it into a holistic learning experience that benefits all students, not just the most competitive players.
The potential of Academic Esports goes far beyond gaming—it’s a gateway to STEM careers, digital literacy, and 21st-century skills. By integrating esports into classrooms, schools can prepare students for the future while supporting their passions and interests. Whether you’re looking to launch esports as an elective, a CTE pathway, or a districtwide program, the US Academic Esports League offers the curriculum, competition platform, and ongoing support you need to succeed.
Ready to transform your school’s esports program into an academic powerhouse?
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