4 minute read
Level Up: TCISD introduces new high school eSports program
Texas City has hit the start button this school year on a new adventure, launching an eSports program at La Marque High School and Texas City High School. As the popularity of eSports surges, TCISD wanted to harness this momentum to enrich student life and provide new academic and career opportunities.
The initiative aims to transform students from casual gamers into strategic champions and foster skills that extend beyond the screen. Chief Technology Officer Gina Covington said the program is designed with multiple objectives in mind.
“Our eSports program focuses on developing players’ skills both individually and as part of a team,” she said. “This includes improving strategic thinking, reflexes, communication and teamwork skills.”
One of the features of the new program is its integration into the existing curriculum. TCISD’s technology department collaborates with the career and technical education department to identify curriculum that aligns with state standards and eSports. Starting with the 2024-25 school year, a gaming design course will be offered at TCHS through the CTE department.
At LMHS, the program is part of the ACE 21st Century after-school program. Advisor Devyn Billiott said the program seamlessly blends into the school’s daily routine.
“Whether it’s math, history or English class, gaming can help students sharpen their critical thinking and problem-solving skills,” he said. “Plus, after school, we bring the fun with gaming events and tournaments that everyone can get involved in.”
TCISD has invested significantly in ensuring the success of the eSports program. Each campus is equipped with state-of-the-art gaming stations, high-speed computers with advanced graphic capabilities, gaming keyboards and mice. Currently, the teams compete in Overwatch2 and Super Smash Bros., titles that demand strategic depth and coordination. This robust support system ensures that students have everything they need to compete and succeed. In the program’s first year, two teams from TCHS qualified for the playoffs.
Covington said the eSports program offers students numerous opportunities for development, both academically and personally. Many eSports programs provide scholarships or financial incentives for talented players, helping students support their education while pursuing their passion for gaming.
“The eSports industry has grown significantly in recent years, creating a range of job opportunities across various industries, including content creation, social media management, graphic design, game development and more,” she said.
For students, the program isn’t just about gaming, Billiott said.
“Through gaming, students develop crucial skills like teamwork, communication and leadership,” he said. “Plus, they build strong friendships within our gaming community, making their high school experience even more rewarding.”
A key objective for the eSports program is to promote diversity and inclusivity. The program is open to any student interested and provides students with a place to connect with others who share similar interests, which fosters relationships and a sense of community.
“What I want to provide is a community of culture,” said TCHS advisor Rebeccah Burnette. “I want to make sure every one of the students knows how important they are to me.”
The response from students has been positive. LMHS student Chase Henderson said the challenge of playing with new people is fun.
“The more we play, the better we get,” he said. “The most fun thing is getting to play with other people who know what they’re doing.”
For Zander Gomez, a student at TCHS, the competitive aspect is a major draw.
“It’s exciting to get to play games competitively for the school instead of just playing with my friends at home,” he said.
LMHS student Juvoni Lozano said the best part of the eSports program was the teamwork involved.
“I’m a team player all the way,” he said. “The way some of the games are built and set up, you alone cannot be the deciding factor in anything. You have to work as a team, and if you try to work by yourself, it’s not going to work and you are going to lose.”
As TCISD’s eSports program develops, it’s clear the initiative is not just about gaming; it’s about building a community, fostering personal growth and preparing students for a future filled with possibilities. Game on.
